Aging and Discrimination
Even though more individuals above the age of 65 were counted in the 2010 census than in any other previous census, the seniors in our country still struggle with stigmas placed on them by society.
Unfortunately, seniors are generally perceived as unsuitable employees, part of a demographic that’s not worth advertising to because they’re too “set in their ways.”
This neglect by the workforce and the media leads to overall misconceptions about the lifestyles and usefulness of our senior citizens. Moreover, an alarming amount of ageism ensues in the healthcare system.
Medical professionals constantly neglect research and preventative care concentrated on aging adults because they believe that “old people are supposed to be sick, and nothing much can be done because we can’t turn back time.”
Research conducted at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine revealed that 80% of medical students would aggressively treat pneumonia in a 10-year-old girl. In comparison, only 56% would do the same for an 85-year-old woman.
Like any other level of stereotyping, ageism harms all individuals exposed to this type of mentality, especially those most affected by discrimination. Even retirees are at risk of believing the false portrayals of themselves that are so continually shown to them.
