Ageism Exploration: Classifications, Illustrations, and Health Effects
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Benevolent ageism, a form of age discrimination that involves patronizing beliefs towards older adults, is a prevalent issue in healthcare. This subtle form of ageism can manifest as seemingly kind or protective behaviors that, nevertheless, undermine older adults’ independence and lead to negative outcomes.
According to recent social work and aging policy literature, the impact of benevolent ageism can be reduced by increasing awareness among healthcare providers about its patronizing nature, promoting respectful communication that recognizes older adults’ autonomy, and using person-centered care approaches that avoid stereotypes and emphasize empowerment.
The effects of benevolent ageism on older adults are profound. Older adults may experience identity disruption and displacement, decreased social and intellectual stimulation, emotional impact, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Feeling infantilized or disempowered can reduce motivation and engagement in care, which can adversely affect recovery and quality of life.
Strategies to reduce benevolent ageism in healthcare include provider education and training, promoting inclusive and collaborative care environments, enhancing social connections and leisure activities, and policy and systemic support. Teaching healthcare professionals to recognize benevolent ageism and avoid patronizing language, making use of older adults' preferred terms, and encouraging respect for their capabilities are crucial steps.
Using narrative and strengths-based approaches where the older adult’s experiences and autonomy are central to care planning can also help. Supporting technologies and programs that maintain social engagement improve well-being and can counteract the isolating effects of ageist attitudes. Protecting and expanding programs that uphold the dignity and rights of older adults, such as those under the Older Americans Act and supportive community aging resources, are essential.
Ultimately, reducing benevolent ageism involves shifting from a protectionist mindset to one of empowerment and partnership in healthcare with older adults. This shift can lead to improved physical and mental health, reduced care needs, and a higher quality of life for older adults.
It is important to note that ageism is a systemic form of oppression that can affect people of any age. Internalized ageism, where a person internalizes ageist beliefs and applies them to themselves, is also a concern. Social workers in healthcare settings spend less time with older people who have cancer compared with younger people, which can exacerbate feelings of isolation and disempowerment.
Education, intergenerational understanding and cooperation, and policy change are necessary to end ageism. On an individual level, people can contribute to ending ageism by becoming aware of ageism, learning about ageism, developing skills, and taking action against ageism. Together, we can create a more inclusive and respectful healthcare system for all ages.
Sources for these points are primarily drawn from recent social work and aging policy literature emphasizing identity, empowerment, and combating ageism in healthcare.
References:
- King, M., & Hepworth, J. (2018). Ageism in healthcare: A review of the literature. Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 44(11), 19-28.
- National Academy on an Aging Society. (2020). Aging in the United States: 2020. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press.
- Palmore, E. B. (2009). The myth of decline in later life. Journal of Gerontology: Psychological Sciences, 64B(3), 242-247.
- Rubin, K. H., & Wagner, M. L. (2010). Ageism: Stereotyping and prejudice against older adults. Annual Review of Gerontology and Geriatrics, 30, 133-155.
- Public health equity requires addressing ageism in healthcare, particularly benevolent ageism that undermines older adults' independence and autonomy.
- Promoting health and wellness in the workplace should include reducing ageist attitudes and practices, benefiting both older and younger employees.
- Other sexual health concerns beyond reproductive health, such as sexually transmitted infections and diseases, are often overlooked in older adults due to ageism and stereotypes.
- Science has shown a correlation between chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular health and poorer health outcomes in older adults caused by negative ageist experiences.
- Cancer treatment and management can be impacted by ageism, leading to decreased time spent with older cancer patients by healthcare professionals and potentially poorer outcomes.
- Respiratory conditions like COPD and asthma, digestive health problems like irritable bowel syndrome, eye health issues like age-related macular degeneration, and hearing problems like presbycusis are all age-related medical conditions that require specialized care and attention.
- Aging can also impact skin conditions, neurological disorders, and mental health, including autoimmune disorders, depression, and anxiety.
- Therapies and treatments for mental health and emotional well-being are essential, especially in older adults, to address age-related challenges like reduced social connections and self-care.
- Mental health promotion is crucial for older adults' personal growth, education and self-development, career development, and job search opportunities.
- Skills training and career development programs can help older adults maintain their employment status, earning potential, and overall well-being.
- Job search assistance is necessary to ensure older adults have equal access to employment opportunities, thus reducing feelings of disempowerment and isolation.
- Medicare supports the healthcare needs of older adults, but ageism can result in disparities in access to treatment and services for various medical conditions, including cancer, chronic diseases, and neurological disorders.
- CBD has been researched as a potential treatment for certain medical conditions in older adults, such as anxiety, pain, and inflammation, although more research is needed.
- To combat ageism in healthcare, we require ongoing education, increased awareness, policy change, and a conscious effort to promote empowerment, inclusion, and respect for all ages.
