First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge that we do not all age in the same way or under the same conditions. Research shows that aging is an individual, social and cultural process (not a state) that begins at birth and transforms us physically and cognitively as well as in our relationships with others and with our environment. We all age differently, as parents, workers, friends, athletes and women… In fact, it would probably be preferable to talk about “agings,” in the plural!

The origins of concerns about ageism 

To counter ageism, we must first recognize its manifestations and expressions. Unfortunately, this form of discrimination remains little known and for the most part (unfortunately) tends to fly under the radar. Let’s demystify this “ultimate prejudice” that is so widely tolerated and neglected. In 1969, the American gerontologist Robert Butler observed a tendency to lump all people in the same age group—especially older adults. Whether consciously or unconsciously, we assign them characteristics associated with the group of “older adults,” without taking into account their unique personalities, their differences, their living conditions, in short, their unique journey.

Of course, there are flattering and positive stereotypes of older adults. It is not uncommon to hear that they are wise, caring, committed and available. Who better to whip up a home remedy than grandma? And isn’t marital advice from a couple celebrating 40 years together something to cherish? 

That said, older adults are often described as useless, incompetent, vulnerable or too frail to perform certain tasks, resistant to change, conservative and selfish. It is not uncommon for them to be described as confused or even senile; the slightest sign of weakness will often be identified as a vulnerability, an inability. An old body is viewed as being defective, a source of shame and pity for oneself or for others. The cult of youth, beauty and performance likely contributes to our negative perception of aging, starting from childhood.

Stereotypes have a significant impact, shaping the way society looks at older adults. They prevent us from recognizing individuals in all their diversity, and cause us to believe that those who defy our prejudices are exceptional individuals. To learn more about the consequences of ageism, read our text on the subject!

The forms of ageism

Research has uncovered four types of ageism toward older adults: 

• Hostile ageism refers to deliberate, malicious words or behaviours directed at older adults. The term “boomer remover” is an example. 
• Compassionate ageism is subtler and involves the perception that older adults are vulnerable, in need of care, unable to care for themselves, and incapable of making decisions. This form of ageism deprives older adults of their right to speak and act; many feel infantilized, or treated like children.
• Intergenerational ageism refers to the stereotypical and discriminatory attitudes and behaviours of members of one generation toward people older than them. This type of ageism is often connected to intergenerational tension. 
• Intragenerational ageism is ageism that occurs within the social group of individuals perceived to be elderly. In this case, it is the older adults themselves who are distancing themselves from, or even discriminating against, their fellow older adults. Younger members of the group may seek to distinguish themselves from older members, and older adults who are “in shape” may seek to set themselves apart from those who have health problems, for example. 

It’s important to recognize that we have all witnessed, conveyed or been a target of ageism. Whether intentional or unintentional, implicit or explicit, ageism is everywhere—in family and organizational dynamics as well as in media content, among other things. Being aware of this is already a step toward breaking with ageism!