What does the term "ageism" refer to?

The term "ageism" refers to discrimination or prejudice based on age, encapsulating a range of negative attitudes or behaviors directed toward individuals based on their age, particularly older adults. This concept highlights how societal norms and beliefs can lead to the marginalization or mistreatment of people solely because they belong to a certain age group.

Understanding ageism is crucial in gerontology as it affects various aspects of life, including healthcare, employment, and social interactions. By promoting awareness of ageism, societies can work towards fostering more inclusive environments that value individuals of all ages and combat stereotypes that suggest older adults are less capable or less valuable.

While preferences for younger individuals in employment, beliefs in the superiority of youth, and appreciation of older individuals are all factors that relate to age dynamics, they do not encompass the broader and more impactful scope of ageism, which is fundamentally about discrimination and prejudice.