Understanding the Nuances of Positive Ageism
While many people are familiar with negative ageism—overt prejudice or discrimination against older individuals—positive ageism is a less recognized, but equally damaging, phenomenon. Also known as benevolent ageism, this bias arises from seemingly kind or well-intentioned attitudes that are nonetheless based on age-related stereotypes. It stems from a paternalistic mindset that views older adults as a uniformly frail and vulnerable population needing protection, rather than as diverse, capable individuals. This can manifest in subtle ways, from infantilizing language to making unwarranted assumptions about a person's capabilities.
The Difference Between Appreciation and Bias
Distinguishing between genuine appreciation for an individual and the bias of positive ageism is crucial. For example, respectfully seeking advice from a wise elder is a positive interaction based on an individual's unique experience. In contrast, assuming every older person is wise, slow, or unwilling to learn new things is positive ageism, as it is based on a collective stereotype rather than the individual themselves. A true appreciation of an individual's worth acknowledges their unique perspectives, abilities, and achievements without generalizing.
Common Examples of Positive Ageist Behaviors
Positive ageism often hides in plain sight, disguised as kindness or concern. Here are some common examples that demonstrate how it can appear in everyday interactions.
Elderspeak
One of the most pervasive forms of positive ageism is elderspeak, which involves speaking to older adults in a condescending, simplified, or patronizing manner. While the intention may be to be helpful or comforting, this type of communication can make older adults feel disrespected, patronized, and infantilized. It sends a message that they are incompetent or childlike. Repeated use of elderspeak can constrain older adults from interacting at their actual level of competence, potentially leading to lower levels of capability.
Phrases to Avoid:
- Using overly simplistic language or a singsong tone.
- Using terms of endearment like "sweetie," "dearie," or "honey" with strangers.
- Speaking loudly or slowly as if they have trouble hearing or understanding.
Paternalistic Assumptions
Positive ageism often involves making assumptions about what an older person can or cannot do, leading to over-helpfulness. This can manifest in a number of ways:
- Automatically offering help with tasks like carrying groceries or operating technology without being asked.
- Excluding older family members from decision-making processes, even when they are fully capable.
- Making medical decisions on behalf of an older person without consulting them, based on the assumption that they are too frail or forgetful to know what they want.
The Harmful Effects of Positive Ageism
Despite its seemingly benign nature, positive ageism can have profoundly negative psychological and physical consequences for older adults. When individuals are consistently treated as if they are frail, dependent, or in need of constant assistance, it can erode their self-esteem and sense of autonomy.
Impact on Mental and Physical Health
Research shows a clear link between ageism and poorer health outcomes. Psychologist Becca Levy's work on stereotype embodiment theory demonstrates that the stereotypes about aging people absorb from their culture can shape how they see themselves as they get older. People with more positive attitudes toward aging have been found to live longer and recover better from disability. Conversely, internalized ageism—which can be fueled by positive as well as negative stereotypes—can increase stress and lead to worse health.
Positive vs. Negative Ageism: A Comparison
To fully understand the issue, it's helpful to see how positive and negative ageism, while both forms of discrimination, differ in their intent and effect.
| Aspect | Positive Ageism (Benevolent) | Negative Ageism (Hostile) |
|---|---|---|
| Underlying Belief | Older people are kind, wise, frail, or childlike; requires protection. | Older people are incompetent, stubborn, irrelevant; a burden on society. |
| Intent | Often well-meaning, rooted in a desire to help or protect. | Malicious or openly prejudiced, rooted in disdain or antipathy. |
| Common Manifestation | Elderspeak, paternalistic behavior, over-helpfulness, making blanket assumptions about wisdom. | Jokes about memory loss, denial of job opportunities, exclusion from social activities, overt discrimination. |
| Impact on the Individual | Undermines autonomy, can lead to decreased self-esteem, and can be internalized, leading to poorer health. | Directly harmful, leading to feelings of sadness, anger, worthlessness, and diminished opportunities. |
How to Combat Positive Ageism and Promote Respectful Interactions
Combatting positive ageism requires self-awareness and conscious effort. It is not just about avoiding negative biases but also about recognizing and dismantling the subtle, often unconscious, positive ones. Here are some steps to take to foster a more respectful environment:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about ageism in all its forms. The Reframing Aging Initiative provides resources and communication guides to help reshape public understanding of aging.
- Challenge Your Assumptions: Question any generalizations you make about an individual based on their age. Remember that age alone doesn't determine a person's abilities, interests, or health.
- Use Person-First Language: Refer to "older adults" or "older people" rather than collective, potentially loaded terms like "the elderly" or "seniors". If possible, ask individuals what terms they prefer.
- Encourage Independence: Instead of automatically offering help, ask if assistance is needed. Support an older person's autonomy and decision-making abilities.
- Promote Intergenerational Interaction: Engage in conversations and activities with people of all ages. This helps to break down age-related barriers and stereotypes.
- Model Respectful Behavior: Set a positive example for others by speaking to and about older people with respect and dignity. Avoid humor or comments that rely on ageist tropes.
Conclusion
Positive ageism, though seemingly harmless, is a pervasive and damaging bias that undermines the autonomy and well-being of older adults. It is not enough to avoid overtly negative stereotypes; we must also recognize and challenge the paternalistic and infantilizing assumptions that often hide behind a veil of kindness. By practicing self-awareness, using respectful language, and promoting genuine respect for individuals across all life stages, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone. Understanding what is positive ageism is the first step toward building a more just and equitable world for all ages.
