Did you know there’s a form of discrimination that almost everyone will experience? It’s called ageism – the stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination people face because of their age. Unfortunately, it often goes unnoticed.
Ageism appears in jokes, greeting cards, television, movies, workplaces, and even healthcare. Over time, these attitudes can influence how society treats older adults – and how older adults see themselves.
• Ageism Is More Common Than You Think
Research shows children begin forming ideas about aging as early as age 3. Those beliefs often persist into adulthood, shaping how we interact with older people.
One common example is “elderspeak” – speaking to older adults in a slower, louder, or childlike voice. While usually well-intentioned, it can come across as disrespectful and suggest that older adults are less capable than they really are.
Ageism also affects employment. A 2025 AARP survey found that nearly two-thirds of workers over 50 have witnessed or experienced age discrimination, and 22% felt they were being pushed out of their jobs because of their age.
The effects go beyond the workplace. A University of Michigan study found that people who regularly experience ageism report poorer physical and mental health. In healthcare, symptoms such as pain, fatigue, or depression may sometimes be dismissed as “just part of getting older,”
delaying proper treatment. Media can reinforce these stereotypes by portraying older adults as frail, lonely, or confused, rather than active, engaged, and living meaningful lives.
• What Can We Do?
Reducing ageism starts with simple changes.
Speak to older adults as you would anyone else unless they ask for accommodations. Avoid jokes about “senior moments” or comments that portray aging as something to fear or ridicule.
In the workplace, employers should continue to value older employees by providing equal opportunities for hiring, training, and advancement. Diverse, multigenerational teams benefit everyone.
Most importantly, spend time talking with older adults. Their experiences, knowledge, and perspectives are invaluable, and many will tell you they don’t feel nearly as old as others assume. Older adults also benefit from maintaining a positive outlook on aging. Yale gerontologist Becca Levy, PhD, found that people with positive attitudes about growing older lived an average of 7.5 years longer than those with negative views.
• We Are All Aging
Ageism is unique because, if we’re fortunate enough to live long lives, we will all experience it.
Treating older adults with dignity and respect isn’t just about today’s seniors – it’s about creating the kind of world we all hope to grow old in.
About Right at Home
Tim Petlin is the owner of Right at Home West Los Angeles. For more information, contact Right at Home at www.rahwestla.com, at 310-313-0600, or email Tim: timp@rahwestla.com.