(Just a little bit)
The World Health Organization defines ageism as the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.
Who can forget Aretha Franklin belting out this Otis Redding song in the Blues Brothers movie (check it out on YouTube). The song could be an anthem for today’s seniors. Lack of respect is a prime example of ageism and can have real-world health consequences … It’s not just all in your head.
The World Health Organization defines ageism as the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age. Age is just one aspect of a person’s identity; experiences of ageism can be influenced by other characteristics such as gender or ethnicity.
Ageism can take many forms and may include:
- Joking about a person’s age and making fun of older adults, in general.
- Publishing negative or stereotypical portrayals of older adults in the media.
- Having workplace or health care policies that discriminate against older adults.
- Older adults that are patronized, ignored or insulted.
- Assuming that an older adult is incapable of making their own decisions.
Ageism is an important area of study. Research shows it is associated with a number of negative outcomes for older adults, such as reduced longevity, poverty and financial insecurity, poor health outcomes and loss of self-esteem and confidence. This analysis didn’t come from AI (Artificial Intelligence), nor did I dream it up. It came from a 2023 report on ageism in Canada for the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors Forum: https://bit.ly/41BAYNh (March 5, 2025).
Ageism can be a major deterrent to older adults continuing to work. If your opinion is dismissed constantly (directly or with eye rolls), if you are not considered for training opportunities or promotions or if you are treated less than respectfully, it can be very hard to remain in a position. This is true at any age but somehow treating older workers disrespectfully is acceptable in many workplaces.
Disrespect can also impact businesses. How many seniors end up ordering online because of how they are treated—either as invisible or as a nuisance. And what do we do when government officials treat seniors with disrespect through cumbersome processes or a lack of alternatives to online services, or thoughtless communication that may use only a QR code?
Another area of concern is ageism in health care. This is being increasingly documented and it is vital to name it when you see it. Recent consultations across Canada show that this is the number-one issue for many seniors.
I could go on, but by now you may be wishing I would stop. So let’s look at positive aspects. There are many cultures where respect for Elders is deeply embedded in their societies.
Indigenous communities are often cited as prime examples. Japan has a Respect for the Aged Day as a public holiday in September; their culture has been known for its respectful treatment of older citizens. Many countries, including Canada, celebrate October 1, the International Day of Older Persons, in some way.
A few governments have ongoing national campaigns to end ageism, similar to campaigns against racism or sexism in its many forms. The Government of Manitoba has a great web page called Every Age Counts, which includes a quiz, resource materials and some general guidelines (gov.mb.ca/seniors/ageism.html). The World Health Organization talks about respect for seniors as an important component of healthy aging, and the need for social and economic inclusion, with older adults to be consulted on decisions affecting them.
What else can we do?
Urge governments to join the battle against ageism. As individuals, we can remind ourselves that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and afforded dignity in decision-making.
Constant vigilance is needed so that we can fight this last bastion of seemingly-acceptable discrimination.
Are we up for it?
