Contrasting negative stereotypes against aging through a silent disco event: an ecological study

Background: Ageism and stigma toward individuals with dementia contribute to their social exclusion and negatively impact their well-being. Intergenerational interventions, particularly those based on shared enjoyable experiences, have shown potential in reducing negative stereotypes. This study explored whether a Silent Disco event could challenge ageism and dementia-related stigma by fostering positive intergroup contact. Aims: The study assessed the effectiveness of an intergenerational Silent Disco event in reducing ageism and stigma among young adults (21–40 years, M = 32.76 ± 4.70), middle-aged adults (41–60, years M = 51.21 ± 5.88), and young-old adults (61–80 years, M = 66.67 ± 6.10). Methods: A 6-item questionnaire with two subscales—“Non-inclusion” and “Unpleasantness of company”—was administered to 115 participants before and after the event to measure negative stereotypes about aging and dementia. Changes in attitudes were analyzed across age groups. Results: The event reduced stigma-related unpleasantness in the total sample (p =.020) and ageism-related unpleasantness among middle-aged participants (p =.011). However, no statistically significant changes were observed in non-inclusion perceptions for either ageism or stigma. Discussion: These findings indicate that intergenerational Silent Disco events help reduce specific negative stereotypes—particularly unpleasant perceptions of older adults and people with dementia—with the strongest reduction in ageism-related unpleasantness seen in middle-aged participants. However, the persistence of non-inclusion attitudes highlights the need for broader interventions to address social exclusion. Conclusions: Silent Disco events show potential in challenging stereotypes and fostering inclusivity, but additional strategies are needed to promote deeper intergenerational engagement and social inclusion.