Ageism: What it is and how to combat it

Ageism is a term developed in the 1960s by the American gerontologist and psychiatrist Robert Butler, who conceptualizes it as the discrimination of older people based on their chronological age.

In short, it is a stereotype associated with prejudices that assume that all people of a certain age think and behave the same way or have the same needs.

Society tends to stigmatize older adults as weak or cognitively impaired, and there are misconceptions that old age is synonymous with illness, disability, and dependency. This is not true, as it is possible to achieve successful and functional aging even at advanced ages.

Myth 1: All older people are inactive

False! And it would be a big mistake to think this way. Currently, there are about 600 million older people in the world, and their number is expected to double in the coming years, reaching 2 billion by 2050. In many countries, the majority of people over 60 are in excellent health and very physically active.

Myth 2: Older people do not understand technology and are unable to use it

False! It's known as digital ageism. This preconceived idea is widespread and deeply rooted among younger generations raised in the digital age. New technologies are one of the sectors where there is the most discrimination and prejudice against older people.

Myth 3: At your age, you can't do that

False! This is protective ageism. Often, these behaviors, which originate from a "benevolent" perspective, are extremely overprotective and tend to deprive children of their independence and personal goals.

Another of the most common forms of ageism is infantilization: an action that reflects superiority when interacting with our grandparents by treating them as if they were children. Some of these manifestations toward them include:

a) Forcing them to use baby talk or elder speak.

b) Exaggerated gestures.

c) Shouting or raising their voices.

d) Emphasizing diminutive labels like "old lady," "grandpa," etc.

Experts mention 3 expressions that we should leave behind

"You look great for your age." This seemingly flattering remark is a veiled reinforcement of ageism, implying that aging is undesirable and that value is tied to youth.

"Forgetfulness of Old Age." Describes these mental lapses, reinforcing negative stereotypes about cognitive aging.

"Act your age." This phrase tends to set limits on the older adult's behavior.

According to the World Health Organization's Campaign Against Ageism (2021-2030), it is crucial to change negative stereotypes about older people and understand that these are unfair generalizations, as well as to work on an attitude that celebrates aging in all its diversity and potential.