Ageism refers to overt or covert bias against a person because of the person's age. Usually this refers to older adults, but any age may be affected.
Ageism is defined by the WHO as the stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination towards people on the basis of age. There is the perception that a person might be too old or too young to be or to do something.
Triggers for ageism in the elderly:
(1) declining mental capacity and dementia
(2) physical frailty and comorbid diseases
(3) out-of-date attitudes and knowledge
(4) difficulty with technology
Negative consequences:
(1) stigma and prejudice
(2) poor service or neglect
(3) social isolation
(4) physical and mental abuse
(5) lack or loss of work opportunities
(6) exclusion from health research
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