What is Ageism?
Ageism is a prejudice that is pervasive and socially acceptable, often going unchallenged in a way that other forms of discrimination do not. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines ageism as involving stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) directed toward others or oneself based on age. It can affect individuals of any age, both young and old, but its impact on older adults is particularly harmful, contributing to a host of negative outcomes.
Unlike overt racism or sexism, ageism is often deeply ingrained in cultural norms and can be expressed in subtle ways, from offhand comments to systemic policies. For example, language that infantilizes older adults, like calling them “sweetie” or “dear,” can diminish their agency and contribute to prejudice. Understanding ageism is the first step toward dismantling it and creating a more equitable, respectful society for all.
Types and Manifestations of Ageism
Ageism is not a single issue but rather a spectrum of attitudes and actions that affect people differently depending on the context. Recognizing its various forms is crucial for addressing the problem effectively.
Workplace Age Discrimination
This form of ageism is illegal under federal law for workers 40 and older. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) of 1967 protects employees and applicants from discrimination in hiring, promotions, layoffs, and benefits. However, age bias in the workplace can still be subtle and difficult to prove. Signs of ageism at work can include:
- Job advertisements seeking "digital natives," "recent college graduates," or describing a "fast-paced, high-energy" culture that implicitly excludes older candidates.
- Managers overlooking older employees for new training opportunities, challenging projects, or promotions.
- Stereotypical comments about an older worker's supposed lack of tech savviness or energy.
- Older employees feeling pressured into early retirement.
Ageism in Healthcare
In medical settings, ageist attitudes held by healthcare providers can lead to detrimental patient outcomes. This can manifest in several ways:
- Undertreatment: Doctors dismissing treatable symptoms, such as joint pain or fatigue, as just a “normal part of aging” instead of investigating and treating the underlying cause.
- Overtreatment: Providing overly aggressive interventions for older patients who may prefer palliative care, assuming their wishes based on age.
- Elderspeak: Using condescending language, like a high-pitched voice or overly simplistic explanations, which makes older adults feel incompetent and disrespected.
Social and Cultural Ageism
This form of ageism is deeply embedded in society and culture. It includes:
- Media portrayals that either exclude older adults or depict them in stereotypical, negative ways.
- Marketing campaigns that focus exclusively on youth while erasing the presence and contributions of older generations.
- Internalized ageism, where individuals adopt society's negative stereotypes and apply them to themselves as they age. This can lead to self-limiting behaviors and a poorer quality of life.
The Devastating Impact of Ageism
Ageism is not just a matter of hurt feelings; it has profound, scientifically documented negative effects on health, finances, and well-being.
Health Impacts
Research shows a strong link between ageism and poorer physical and mental health.
- Mental Health: Internalizing negative age stereotypes is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and stress in older adults. This can erode self-worth and increase loneliness.
- Physical Health: Ageism has been linked to slower recovery from disability, poorer overall physical health, and even premature death. Those who hold positive views of aging live an average of 7.5 years longer.
- Risky Behaviors: Negative stereotypes can influence health behaviors. If older adults believe they are destined for a decline, they may be less likely to engage in healthy habits like exercise or following medical advice.
Economic and Social Consequences
Ageism also has significant economic consequences and weakens social cohesion.
- Financial Cost: A 2020 Yale study found that the cost of ageism in the United States was $63 billion annually, accounting for one of every seven dollars spent on the eight most expensive health conditions.
- Lost Potential: Ageism leads to a loss of experience and contributions from older workers, which has a tangible impact on the economy.
- Intergenerational Divide: By propagating negative stereotypes, ageism erodes solidarity and understanding between generations.
Ageism vs. Elder Abuse
While ageism is a prejudice and discrimination based on age, elder abuse is a specific and actionable harm caused by an intentional or negligent act. However, ageism often provides the cultural foundation that allows abuse to occur and go unnoticed. The comparison below highlights the key differences.
| Aspect | Ageism | Elder Abuse |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | A form of prejudice and discrimination; can be systemic or individual. | An intentional or negligent act causing harm or risk of harm. |
| Manifestation | Stereotypes, biased attitudes, social exclusion, workplace discrimination, and healthcare bias. | Physical, sexual, psychological, or financial exploitation and neglect. |
| Legal Status | Discrimination is illegal in certain contexts (e.g., employment); prejudice itself is not a crime. | A crime or civil offense, with specific laws protecting older adults. |
| Relationship to Abuser | Can be perpetrated by anyone in society. | Often committed by a caregiver, trusted individual, or family member. |
How to Combat Ageism
Fighting ageism requires a multi-faceted approach involving education, policy changes, and personal reflection. Here are some steps you can take:
- Promote Education and Awareness: Learn about ageism and its effects, then share that knowledge with others. Educational activities that dispel myths about aging are effective in reducing prejudice.
- Increase Intergenerational Contact: One of the biggest drivers of ageism is the segregation of generations. Creating opportunities for meaningful contact between different age groups is a powerful intervention. This can be as simple as joining a community group or mentoring younger colleagues.
- Use Respectful Language: Be mindful of the language you use. Avoid terms like "the elderly" or patronizing phrases. Choose neutral, respectful terms like “older adults” or “people over age X”.
- Challenge Your Own Biases: We all hold implicit biases. Reflect on your own assumptions about aging and actively challenge them. Internalized ageism is common, and self-awareness is key to overcoming it.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Support organizations and policies that promote age-inclusive practices in workplaces, healthcare, and community planning. Look to resources like the World Health Organization (WHO) for global guidance on age-friendly environments and inclusive policies. WHO Ageing page.
Conclusion
Ageism is a deeply ingrained and harmful form of discrimination, but it is not an inevitable aspect of society. By understanding what discrimination against the elderly is called and how it manifests, we can begin to challenge negative stereotypes and foster a more inclusive culture. Creating a world that celebrates all stages of life, from youth to old age, benefits everyone by enriching social connections, promoting better health outcomes, and maximizing the contributions of all generations. The fight against ageism starts with awareness and requires a commitment from individuals, organizations, and policymakers alike to build a truly age-just society.
