As seniors, we expect to be treated as respected elders, but sadly, that doesn’t always happen. Ageism is a significant problem that can impact how seniors are treated and even how they view themselves. But what exactly is ageism? Let’s look at what we know.

Ageism Defined

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), ageism is prejudice, stereotypes, or discrimination against a person based on his or her age. This can be directed at another person or even oneself. The WHO states that approximately half of the people in the world are ageist, and people may develop ageist attitudes as early as age four. This makes ageism a significant and pervasive problem. 

Types of Ageism

There are several types of ageism. Ageism can occur on an institutional level, where policies, procedures, and even laws can be discriminatory towards people based on their age. Ageism can also occur within interpersonal relationships, such as when people are patronizing toward seniors or make assumptions about their cognitive abilities. And finally, ageism can be internalized. This happens when a person believes age-based stereotypes and is negatively impacted by those beliefs. 

Where Does Ageism Occur?

Ageism can occur anywhere. Unfortunately, negative stereotypes about age abound. Seniors may face discrimination in the workplace, such as being denied a job because of a belief that seniors are less productive or more resistant to change than younger workers. Ageism can also occur in healthcare, such as when care is rationed based on age. 

In fact, ageism is so pervasive, it frequently happens in everyday interactions, from the grocery store to family gatherings. Cultural beliefs play a big part in attitudes towards age, which means children may develop negative stereotypes about age that persist throughout their lives. And you may have internalized negative beliefs about aging yourself. 

Why Is Ageism Problematic?

Ageism affects everyone, even when it’s not directed against them. When we don’t value our seniors, we miss out on the experience they can share and the positive influences they could have on society. And when we internalize ageist beliefs, we may limit ourselves, have low self-worth, and suffer from depression. Ageism negatively impacts our physical and mental health, our ability to recover after injury or illness, and even our overall lifespan. Additionally, ageism can have a detrimental impact on intergenerational relationships, social wellbeing, and even the economy. 

What Can Be Done To Combat Ageism?

Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms prohibits age-based discrimination, but the problem still persists in our society. A Canadian poll found that a majority of seniors have experienced ageism, and a majority of respondents thought that seniors were seen as less important than younger Canadians.  

On a systemic level, policies must be put in place to ensure seniors are not discriminated against, particularly in healthcare, where seniors report a significant level of ageism. Within our society, steps need to be taken to address ageism as prejudice and to combat negative beliefs.

And finally, we need to examine ageist beliefs within ourselves. That’s a step you can take today. What negative beliefs about aging do you hold? How do those beliefs make you feel today? Recognizing our own ageist beliefs allows us to begin to change them and see ourselves in a more positive light.  

Normandy Living is committed to treating our residents with care and respect. We provide a safe community that supports independence and vibrant aging, and we do not tolerate age-based discrimination.