From: Dan Mustard and Jayme Zobrist
Columbus
We recently read the “Creating an Equitable Community” insert that was included with the April 2 edition of The Republic. While this is a vitally important discussion, we were disappointed to see that there was no mention of the systemic, pervasive ageism that permeates our culture. A quick Google search finds this definition: “Ageism refers to the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) toward others or oneself based on age.”
Data from the 2020 National Poll on Healthy Aging found that 82% of older Americans reported experiencing ageism regularly. The survey found that 65% experienced ageist messages from the media while 45% experienced interpersonal ageism.
Ageism comes in many forms. Ageism is manifested in the workplace when disproportionate numbers of older workers are impacted during layoffs or downsizing. Fifty-six percent of workers over age 50 are pushed out or fired from jobs at least once before leaving the workforce for good. Only 10% earn a comparable salary again. Layoffs are the most common way workers over 50 get pushed out of jobs. More than a third of those who endure one major involuntary departure experience additional ones, and 28% of stable, longtime employees sustain at least one damaging layoff by employers between age 50 and retirement.
Ageism exists when we enact policies that unfairly privilege one age group over another. We often see stereotypes of older people as out of touch, less productive, or stuck in their ways. Ageism appears in personal relationships when we treat family members as though they are “less than” based on their age. We use ageist descriptions like “sweet little old lady” or “cute little old man” that diminish the person’s role and accomplishments. We hear ageist jokes that imply someone is less valuable or worthy of respect, based on their age. Ageism occurs when we disregard someone’s concerns or wishes due to age, or when we take advantage of someone’s age for personal gain. Instances where someone’s age is used as justification to undermine, deceive, or control them are far too common. Ageism can also lead to abuse. The World Health Organization reports that in 2017, a review found that one in six people over the age of 60 experienced some form of elder abuse, which can include emotional, physical, sexual, or financial abuse.
We believe that there was a missed opportunity to engage the community in this important topic. We cannot have an honest discussion about diversity, equity, and inclusion if we are not willing to recognize and discuss ageism and its impact on this significant demographic segment.
Editor’s note: Dan Mustard is executive director of Mill Race Center and secretary of the Indiana Commission on Aging, and Jayme Zobrist is executive director of Just Friends Adult Day Services.
