Written by Dr. Katie Ehlman, Director of Gerontology
Director, Center for Healthy Aging and Wellness
Welcome readers to this issue of the bOLDer Bulletin:
As the United States population continues to age, it is increasingly important to be knowledgeable about topics like ageism. In 1969 Robert N. Butler described ageism as, “Prejudice by one group against another age group”. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) states, “Ageism refers to the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.” The WHO identifies three types of ageism. First, Self-directed ageism is internalized ageism and turned against oneself. Interpersonal ageism arises in interactions between two or more individuals. And, Institutional ageism: are thought of as the laws, rules, social norms, policies, and practices of institutions that unfairly restrict opportunities and systematically disadvantage individuals because of their age.
Let's take a closer look at internalized ageism. As we interact with and think about individuals who are a different age than us, it is important to consider our own internalized ageism. Each person has the opportunity to be a change-maker as we challenge our internalized bias about aging. Rebecca Levy, a psychologist, epidemiologist, and professor at the Yale School of Public Health, argues that ageism can deleteriously affect one’s mental and physical health. She finds that if we have a positive attitude about aging, we will age better ourselves. We all have an opportunity to change our views on aging not only to benefit others, but ourselves as well.
