Ageism is a form of discrimination, stereotyping and prejudice solely based on a person’s age. It can show up in many areas of life including the workplace, social interactions, the media and healthcare. Being a type of discrimination, ageism is an unfair practice that needs to be addressed and eliminated in all areas, especially healthcare where seniors may be vulnerable and unable to defend themselves.
How It Appears in Senior Care
Ageism can show up in a general practitioner’s office where symptoms of an illness are brushed off as “just old age”, which may lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Healthcare professionals may also “infantilize” seniors and treat them like children who don’t understand what’s happening or cannot make their own decisions. Nursing homes and assisted living communities may be understaffed as a result of younger professionals choosing alternative places to work, placing a low value on senior’s lives.
Consequences of Ageism in Senior Care
Unfortunately, ageism comes with negative and sometimes very serious consequences, including premature mortality. Some seniors may experience poor health outcomes due to delayed treatment or symptoms being ignored altogether. Their mental health may be negatively impacted, leading to depression, anxiety and sometimes suicide. On the other side of the coin, some healthcare professionals can be overprotective to the point where seniors lose independence and autonomy. Ultimately, ageism may lead to a poor quality of life.
5 Ways to Combat Ageism in Senior Care
Person-Centered Care
Healthcare professionals who believe in and practice person-centered care realize that the senior is an individual who has preferences, abilities, and goals rather than just being a stereotype.
Staff Training
Senior care leadership must train staff – caregivers and medical professionals, that ageism is destructive and inappropriate and what is needed is quality care, and treatment with dignity and respect.
Encourage Autonomy
Healthcare staff should always provide seniors meaning choices in their daily lives and activities, in care decisions and in social opportunities that will enrich their lives.
Policy and Oversight
At the societal level, legislators must ensure regulations that promote dignity in care, equitable treatment and adequate staffing in nursing homes and assisted living communities.
Intergenerational Programs
Whenever possible, providing activities involving younger people can help reduce age stereotypes and foster respect for older adults and seniors.
Final Thoughts on Age Discrimination in Senior Care
Any form of discrimination is just wrong, including that against seniors. Ageism exists in many places throughout society, the media and in healthcare organizations like skilled nursing homes and assisted living communities. It’s an unfair practice that can do a lot of damage. It is therefore important to seek it out, address it and combat it before it can negatively impact a senior’s quality of life and care.