In this blog we will reflect on ageism, also known as ageism, which is a form of prejudice that affects millions of people of all ages around the world, but is especially harmful to older adults. This phenomenon, which involves stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination based on age, can have devastating consequences on the health, well-being and quality of life of older people.
Ageism as a social manifestation transversally affects the family, institutions and work environments, promoting behaviors that exclude the elderly from life in society, formal care, access to health care, denial of job opportunities, even condescending treatment, replicating an image of old age full of deficiencies and bodily deterioration.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), ageism can have negative effects on the physical and mental health of older adults, contributing to depression, anxiety, social isolation and a lower overall quality of life; undermining the self-esteem, autonomy and dignity of older people, as well as limiting their choices and opportunities in everyday life.
Fortunately, as awareness of this phenomenon grows, so does the fight against ageism, which requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the individual and structural factors that perpetuate this problem. To achieve this, it is essential to foster a culture of respect, appreciation and inclusion of older people, recognizing their experience, wisdom and contributions to society.
Thus, institutions such as the U.S. National Institute on Aging (NIA) and the American Psychological Association (APA) are examples of pioneering institutions actively promoting awareness of ageism and providing educational resources to combat it, as well as developing diversity awareness and training programs and inclusive policies.
In parallel to any institutional effort, it is important for civil society to challenge the negative stereotypes associated with aging and highlight the diversity and individuality of the elderly. The urgency of addressing this issue is justified from studies indicating that even as young as four years old, children already express stereotypical views of old age (De la Fuente, 2018). Promoting positive narratives and inclusive representations in the media and popular culture can contribute to changing perceptions and attitudes toward aging.
Costa Rica does not escape from this reality because when considering the demographic transition experienced by its population, where people increasingly tend to have longer lives, the different social actors have the challenge of rethinking old age, considering that it is a stage of life that is getting longer every day, and whose traditional social roles are also in a transitional stage. Some authors have even come to call this cultural change the "longevity revolution" (Walker, 2018), in which the static post-retirement way of life is globally exalted to remain dynamic, empowered and socially active.
At Verdeza Senior Living we firmly believe that through awareness, education and action we can work together to promote the inclusion, respect and dignity of seniors in our society.
References:
- World Health Organization. World report on aging and health. United States: WHO Edition; 2015.
- Walker, A. Why the UK Needs a Social Policy on ageing. Journal of Social Policy[serial on-line].
- U.S. National Institute on Aging (NIA). "Ageism: Stereotyping and Prejudice Against Older Persons."
- American Psychological Association (APA). "Ageism and its Clinical Impact".
- University of Michigan: "Attitudes Toward Aging and Health Among Older Adults: A National Study".
- Acta bioethica. On-line version ISSN 1726-569X. Acta bioeth. vol.27 no.1 Santiago jun. 2021.
- Officer, A, De la Fuente, V. A global campaign to combat ageism.Bulletin of the World Health Organization[serial on-line] 2018.
