The share of older people in today's developed societies is increasing, but their impact on many affairs in society, as well as the attitude towards them, is not proportional to their number. The causes of such a situation are primarily progress in the field of health care, improved quality of life and continuous decline in fertility rates. Due to the ignorance of the needs of the elderly population and their contribution to the modern world, prejudices and stereotypes towards the elderly are formed, and they are characterized as unproductive, dependent and unchangeable. As age is usually the first trait we notice on a person, based on that, we come to conclusions that then affect the way we behave towards that person. In modern society, the media plays a major role in forming attitudes, so it is necessary to work on a more positive portrayal of the elderly. Many older people are actually in good health condition, have knowledge and skills and want to contribute to society. They cannot be considered just a burden, the elderly will be present in an increasing number of social fields in the future, and the concept of active aging is trying to emphasize that. Due to all the above mentioned, it is necessary to work on improving the position of the elderly in society, not only at the state level, but also by changing our own attitudes.