Ageism is defined by the World Health Organization as the stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination directed toward others or oneself based on age. Stereotypes reflect how we think, prejudice reflects how we feel, and discrimination reflects how we act. While ageism affects people of all ages, it is most commonly associated with older adults. Addressing it is crucial.
Ageism is deeply embedded within our culture, causing it to often go unnoticed. According to the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, 82% of older adults aged 50 to 80 years old reported regularly experiencing ageism. Interestingly, this study also found that older adults who engaged more frequently with media, including television and the Internet, were more likely to report encountering ageism. Such findings underscore how pervasive ageist narratives are in our media and entertainment.
Ageism against older adults manifests in various ways, often categorized as institutional, interpersonal, or internalized. Institutional ageism occurs when organizations perpetuate ageist practices through policies or cultural norms. Examples of this include employers asking unnecessary age-related questions during job interviews or assuming older workers are less adaptable or productive. Healthcare settings can also exhibit institutional ageism, such as through “elderspeak,” which involves speaking to older adults in oversimplified, infantilizing, or patronizing tones, which can cause the older adult to feel disrespected and unheard. Interpersonal ageism occurs in social interactions, such as having exposure to jokes or messaging that portray aging and older adults as incapable or undesirable, or dismissing someone’s concerns based on their age. Internalized ageism occurs when older adults themselves adopt negative stereotypes about aging, which might lead them to take extreme measures to appear younger or view aging as synonymous with declining happiness. Recognizing these forms of ageism is essential to addressing them effectively.
Much of the bias against older adults stems from misconceptions. While aging does increase the risk of certain chronic conditions and cognitive decline, the reality is that most older adults maintain good health and cognitive function. Aging is a highly individualized process, with significant variation between individuals. Just as it is important to avoid making assumptions about a person’s abilities based on their gender or race, it is important to question our biases and sweeping generalizations about the impacts of aging.
Discrimination based on age not only diminishes respect for older adults, but can also affect their physical and mental well-being. Ageist attitudes can lead to poorer treatment of older adults, which can, in turn, affect how they perceive themselves. Research has shown that older adults who experience frequent ageism are more likely to report chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, as well as symptoms of depression. Negative outlooks on aging can increase stress levels, which are linked to numerous age-related diseases, and discourage healthy behaviors like exercising or adhering to medical advice. Becca Levy, a professor of epidemiology and psychology at Yale University, notes that older adults who internalize negative beliefs about aging often experience worse physical, cognitive, and mental health outcomes. Conversely, combating ageism can improve health outcomes by fostering more positive attitudes toward aging.
Addressing ageism requires action at both individual and systemic levels. Enforcing laws and policies that combat age discrimination is a crucial step. For example, in the United States, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act protects individuals aged 40 and older from workplace discrimination. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act prohibits employers from making employment decisions based on an individual’s age, such as hiring, firing, and compensation, to name a few. Such efforts can be further supported by workers reporting instances of ageism and policymakers ensuring age bias regulations are included within diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Education also plays a vital role by dispelling misconceptions about aging through the dissemination of accurate information and counterexamples, which can help reduce prejudice and build empathy. Lastly, fostering intergenerational connections can bridge gaps between age groups, thus reducing stereotypes and cultivating mutual understanding.
Ageism, while pervasive, is not insurmountable. By acknowledging its presence in our daily lives and working to challenge it, we can create a society that values and respects individuals of all ages. Aging is a natural and diverse process, and recognizing its positive aspects can improve the lives of older adults and enrich society as a whole.
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