Understanding and Valuing Every Generation
By Christine Vanlandingham
Ageism, defined as stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination against people based on their age, is a pervasive issue that manifests in various forms. It affects young and old alike, though older adults often bear the brunt more severely. This bias against age can have profound negative impacts on individuals and communities, diminishing quality of life and reinforcing harmful stereotypes.
A recent health care interaction brought age differentiation in health care protocols into focus. During a tele-health visit, the nurse practitioner was poised to prescribe an antibiotic for my (non-urgent) ailment when she abruptly changed course saying, “Oh! I’m sorry. I see that you’re 60 years old now. I am not able to conduct this visit virtually. You’ll have to visit an urgent care clinic.”
So, at age 59 years and 364 days old, my condition could easily be addressed over a video call, but the day I turned 60, I needed to make time for an in-person visit to a more expensive, less convenient mode of treatment. What suddenly changed? My ability to communicate my symptoms? The practitioner’s ability to diagnose the condition once I was one day older? No. It was an arbitrary “red flag” (the provider’s term) due to my age that prevented her from providing care. She apologized but could do nothing further. The system would not let her proceed. Virtual visit ended. Care not received.
Over the weekend, a friend lamented that her husband recently retired because he works in an industry that has forced retirement at age 65. Was he any less capable at age 65 than he was one day previously? No. But the company he works for has firm policies. You’re 65? You’re done working here.
Ageism significantly affects older adults, often relegating them to the periphery of society. Older adults are frequently stereotyped as frail, dependent, or technologically inept. These misconceptions lead to exclusion, decreased opportunities for employment, and inadequate healthcare services. It’s a vicious cycle where negative perceptions reinforce detrimental outcomes, perpetuating the prejudice further. Moreover, internalized ageism—when older adults accept and believe societal stereotypes about aging—can lead to a decline in mental and physical health. Studies have shown that individuals who hold negative attitudes about aging are more likely to experience stress, depression, and a shorter lifespan.
While older adults are most affected by ageism, younger people are not immune. They are often viewed as inexperienced, irresponsible, or overly idealistic. These stereotypes can hinder their professional growth, limit their participation in decision-making processes, and undermine their contributions to society. The lack of respect and validation that young people face can stifle innovation and discourage them from pursuing leadership roles.
The societal implications of ageism are far-reaching. An ageist society suffers from a lack of age diversity, missing out on the wealth of experience and fresh perspectives that different age groups bring. This homogeneity can stifle creativity and problem-solving, leading to a less dynamic and adaptable community. Furthermore, ageism can exacerbate social isolation and loneliness, which have been linked to various health risks, including heart disease, cognitive decline, and mortality.
Challenging ageist stereotypes is crucial for promoting healthy communities.
Policymakers and advocates should address ageism through legislation and public policy. This involves enforcing anti-discrimination laws, promoting age diversity in the workplace, and ensuring healthcare services meet the needs of all age groups. By prioritizing age inclusion, societies can create environments where individuals of all ages can thrive.
It is imperative that we value and integrate the contributions of all generations, ensuring that each person, regardless of age, is respected and empowered to participate fully in the community. By challenging stereotypes and fostering an inclusive environment, we can combat ageism and build a more resilient society.
Everyone has a role to play in combating ageism, and there are several actions that individuals can take to make a difference. First and foremost, educating oneself and others about ageism and its impacts is crucial. By learning about the issue and sharing this knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues, we can raise awareness and foster understanding.
Challenging stereotypes is another important step. When ageist comments or behaviors are encountered, it is vital to speak up and challenge these misconceptions. Promoting positive representations of all age groups can help to dispel harmful stereotypes and encourage a more inclusive perception of aging.
Supporting policies that protect against age discrimination and promote age diversity is essential. By advocating for such policies and backing organizations and initiatives that strive towards these goals, we can contribute to a more age-friendly society.
Finally, practicing empathy is key. Treating people of all ages with respect and empathy and recognizing the unique experiences and contributions of each generation can foster a culture of understanding and acceptance.
By taking these actions, we can create a society where everyone is valued, respected, and supported, regardless of age.
Christine Vanlandingham is CEO of Region IV Area Agency on Aging in Southwest Michigan. Questions on age or independence services? Call the Info-Line for Aging & Disability at 800-654-2810 or visit areaagencyonaging.org. The Generations column appears each weekend in The Herald-Palladium.