Highlighting the impact of ageism on older people’s everyday lives
While awareness and understanding of the impact of prejudice and discrimination has grown significantly, ageism remains widespread across the world and is often laughed off or dismissed.
Ageist language and imagery frequently appear in media, advertising and public discourse, commonly portraying older age as a period of decline, ill-health and frailty, as something to be feared rather than celebrated.
These stereotypes reinforce negative attitudes towards older people and can lead to discrimination in areas such as employment and access to health, social care and other public services. Evidence also shows that ageism has wider harmful effects, including on health, wellbeing, financial security and social inclusion, while limiting opportunities to age well.
When I launched Spotlights on Ageism in January, I said I wanted to shine a light on the realities of ageism for older people in Wales and the ways it manifests in people’s everyday lives.
And the contributions shared by public service leaders and other experts working across key sectors, which I’ve brought together here, paint a vivid picture of some of the challenges and barriers older people are facing.
I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who contributed for sharing their extensive knowledge, expertise and insight and for providing such impactful, thought-provoking pieces.
As you’ll see, the contributions are rooted both in evidence and people’s lived experiences, highlighting issues in specific areas that need to be responded to, as well as revealing a number of common themes that can help to prioritise action.
Read Spotlights on Ageism
