The American Society on Aging (ASA) is a national nonprofit association dedicated to supporting professionals whose work affects older adults. It brings together people from many fields (e.g., health care, policy, business, technology, research, and social services,) to strengthen knowledge, promote inclusion, and drive improvements in how society supports aging. Founded in 1954 under the name Western Gerontological Society, ASA has grown into one of the largest and most diverse aging-focused organizations in the United States.

ASA’s mission is to “unite, empower and champion” those working to improve aging experiences, with particular emphasis on equity, anti-ageism, and opportunity for older adults. With more than 5,000 individual members and many organizational members, ASA provides a platform for professionals interested in aging to connect, learn, lead, and collaborate across sectors.

Examples of work include:

• Education & Learning: Training, webinars, certification, and an annual national conference called “On Aging,” helping professionals expand their skills in aging-related fields.
• Research & Publications: Publishes journals, reports, and other resources that explore aging issues, such as economic security, health, culture, innovation, and equity.
• Advocacy & Inclusion: Works to counter ageism, promote justice and equity for older adults, and support innovations and policy change in the aging sector.

Resources

American Society on Aging. (n.d.). About ASA. American Society on Aging. https://asaging.org/about-asa

American Society on Aging. (n.d.). Strategic plan. American Society on Aging. https://asaging.org/strategic-plan

American Society on Aging. (n.d.). Membership. American Society on Aging. https://asaging.org/membership