Health Consequences of Ageism
Ageism has significant consequences at multiple levels. A global systematic review by Chang et al. (2020) found that at the structural level, age-based discrimination often results in the denial of appropriate care, as treatment decisions are often influenced by age rather than need. Older adults are also often excluded from clinical research, have more limited work opportunities and their lives are devalued. At the individual level, ageism is linked to reduced life expectancy, lower social support, poor social engagement, and social isolation. It can also lead to various risky behaviours, such as poor diet, medication noncompliance, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking. Furthermore, ageism is associated with cognitive decline, functional impairment, various chronic conditions, acute medical events and increased hospitalizations (Chang et al., 2020). For the health system, these outcomes translate into higher costs due to the increased demand for medical interventions and long-term care for preventable health issues exacerbated by age-related discrimination (Levy et al., 2020).
Activity 6
Older people often interact with the healthcare system. As a group, identify one health reason for an older person to interact with the healthcare system and determine available services relevant to their reason for interacting with it. Discuss:
- Do you see age-based decision-making in this case?
- How do the diagnosis and treatment are decided? Would the treatment be different if the person was younger?
- What implications does it have on the person’s life?
To be effective, ageism needs to be tackled at both individual and structural levels. Reflecting on our values, beliefs, and attitudes about aging and older people and being aware of and continuously questioning our assumptions about older persons prevent us from applying biases toward older people. As healthcare practitioners, we need to foster skills and knowledge in interdisciplinary, collaborative, and integrated care that focuses on problems that matter to people and be mindful of how we interact with older people. At the structural level, laws need to protect people from age-based discrimination. Policy decisions in various sectors must consider older people’s needs and recognize the connection between physical and social health. More accurate portrayals of aging in media are needed to shift the current discourse on aging that perpetuates ageism. By addressing ageism through both individual and systemic change, we can create a society that values older adults, ensures their dignity, and promotes equitable opportunities for their inclusion and well-being.
Activity 7
As a group, brainstorm other structural solutions to combat age-based discrimination in:
- Primary healthcare setting
- Acute care
- Long-term care
- Community groups