It is essential to recognise and challenge these biases in order to promote environments where older adults are valued for their contributions, experience, and wisdom. By breaking down the barriers that ageism creates, we can build a more inclusive culture and embrace the value that older adults bring to society.
Recognising Ageism
Ageism, like many forms of bias can manifest in different ways, from subtle exclusions to outright discrimination. Recognising and addressing ageism in society is the first step in helping to overcome prejudice.
Common stereotypes often portray older people as frail, forgetful, or resistant to change. These misconceptions can shape how people are viewed and treated in their everyday life. Allowing these attitudes to go unchecked can lead to exclusion from social, economic, and cultural participation.
Ageism is particularly problematic in work and healthcare situations. Ageist attitudes can result in older employees being overlooked for promotions or assumed to be less competent in handling new technologies. In healthcare, it can lead to assumptions being made, and genuine requests for help can be written off as simply part of “getting old,” rather than being properly addressed.
The Impact of Ageism
The effects of ageism can have real consequences on the wellbeing and quality of life of older people. Studies have shown that negative stereotypes and resulting attitudes and behaviours towards aging people can impact mental health, leading to feelings of worthlessness, anxiety, and depression. Ageism can also discourage older individuals from seeking opportunities for growth, whether through work, continuing education, or social connections, ultimately impacting their sense of purpose and fulfillment.
In more extreme cases, ageism can even contribute to neglect or mistreatment, as older adults may not receive the care or attention they need. When older individuals are dismissed or ignored due to their age, they lose their voice and their confidence to make important decisions affecting their lives.
Addressing and Challenging Ageism
- Recognising Stereotypes
When addressing ageism, the first step is recognising that age-based stereotypes are harmful and incorrect. As a society, we must acknowledge that getting older is a part of life and that ageing does not change a person’s value, nor does it mean they should be immediately written-off as incapable. By noticing when stereotypes are being used, we can begin to address ageism in society.
- Advocacy and Policy Change
As well as the participation of individuals, tackling ageism at a society level will require systemic change. Policies that protect the rights of older adults and prevent age-based discrimination is essential in ensuring individuals are protected. This could include promoting workplace initiatives that support older employees and ensuring that healthcare systems address the unique needs of aging populations.
- Promoting Positive Representations of Aging
Like most things, media and advertising play a huge role in the way the public views older adults. What we see in the world shapes how we perceive aging. By promoting positive representations of older adults, telling stories that highlight people thriving in their careers, contributing to society and actively learning new skills will help to break down ageist attitudes.
- Intergenerational Connections
Creating opportunities for intergenerational connections can help to break down negativity, build respect and reduce ageism. When younger and older generations interact regularly, they can better understand and appreciate one another’s perspectives. From volunteering to mentoring programs and community events, by allowing for connections and fostering meaningful relationships between age groups we can promote a more inclusive society.
The Value of Older Adults
When people are dismissed and disregarded simply because of their age, we miss out on the knowledge, wisdom, and insights that come with growing older. Older adults bring a wealth of experience that can enrich our lives, from immediate families to our communities, and workplaces.
Challenging stereotypes, confronting ageist attitudes and advocating for fairness will not only support the wellbeing of older generations but also create a society that values every stage of life.