The Badge Archive

Senior Citizens in the Media

*Inspired by an activity choice in the GSUSA 1980s program for Across Generations

Older adults are shown in many different ways in the media. Sometimes they’re portrayed as wise, active, and kind, like loving grandparents or community leaders. Other times, they’re shown as forgetful, frail, or out-of-touch. These portrayals can shape how people think about aging and older people.

Studies show that older adults are often underrepresented or shown in limited roles. Positive images, like seniors using technology, working, or having fun, are becoming more common, but negative stereotypes still appear. Being aware of these patterns helps us challenge unfair ideas and appreciate the full diversity of older people’s lives.

Take Action

Media Investigation Worksheet:

Step 1: Choose Your Sources
Look at at least one from three of the five categories:

  • [ ] Magazine: __________________________
  • [ ] Newspaper: __________________________
  • [ ] TV Show: __________________________
  • [ ] Movie: __________________________
  • [ ] Book: __________________________

Step 2: Observe and Record
For each source, answer:

  • How many older people did you see?
  • What were they doing?
  • Were they shown in a positive or negative way?
    ☐ Positive
    ☐ Negative
    ☐ Mixed

Step 3: Reflect and Share

  • What surprised you about what you saw?
  • What do you think people learn from these portrayals?
  • [ ] I discussed my findings with my troop/group

Possible Media Sources

Magazines:

  • AARP Magazine – dedicated to older adults and their stories
  • Good Housekeeping – features lifestyle pieces including older public figures
  • People – celebrity profiles often include older icons
  • National Geographic – stories on aging and longevity in global communities
  • Time – investigative journalism, sometimes highlighting seniors in key roles

Newspapers:
Hint: Look for opinion pieces, profiles, or health features that highlight older adults.

  • USA Today
  • The New York Times
  • Your local newspaper
  • The Washington Post
  • The Guardian

Television Shows:

  • Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood – Includes wise older characters like Grandpere and Teacher Harriet, with gentle life lessons.
  • Bluey – While focused on a young pup, it includes loving grandparents and older neighbors who model kindness and playfulness.
  • Molly of Denali – Highlights Alaska Native culture and includes elders who share stories, wisdom, and traditions.
  • Ada Twist, Scientist – Features supportive adults and grandparents who encourage curiosity and exploration.
  • Dinosaur Train – Includes “Mr. Conductor” and Dr. Scott the Paleontologist, both older figures who guide learning.
  • Reading Rainbow (classic episodes) – LeVar Burton often visits with older adults and authors, modeling lifelong learning.
  • Wild Kratts – While not focused on aging, it’s hosted by adult brothers who model teamwork and respect for nature — great for mixed-age viewing.
  • Just Ask! (based on Sonia Sotomayor’s book) – Includes diverse characters and often features older adults in community roles.
  • Jeopardy! – many older contestants featured
  • News programs – often showcase interviews with elders, especially around achievements or community issues

Movies

  • Paddington & Paddington 2 – Features a sweet bond between the bear and older adults, especially Mr. Gruber and the Brown family’s elders
  • Moana – Moana’s grandmother, Tala, is wise, free-spirited, and guides her from beyond
  • Coco – Grandma and great-grandma Coco are central to the story’s warmth and memory themes
  • Charlotte’s Web (live-action or animated) – Fern’s grandparents and farm neighbors show kindness and wisdom
  • Babe – Elderly farmer Hoggett treats the pig with gentle respect and quiet determination

Books

  • The Hello, Goodbye Window by Norton Juster — A warm, playful look at a child’s visits with grandparents
  • Grandpa Green by Lane Smith — A creative tribute to a grandfather’s life told through his garden
  • Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña — A boy and his grandmother explore their city and talk about kindness and gratitude
  • How to Babysit a Grandpa by Jean Reagan — Humorous and charming guide-style story that flips the caregiving roles
  • The Chicken-Chasing Queen of Lamar County by Janice N. Harrington — A girl’s relationship with her wise and wily grandmother
  • My Grandmother’s Hat by Marta Altés — Celebrates style, memory, and creativity with a fun twist

For More About Senior Citizens in the Media

Tia Kennard