Stereotypes of Aging: An Exploratory Study on the Lived Experience of Ageism
Abstract
Introduction: Ageism, the prejudice against older people based on unfavorable and false assumptions, is so pervasive in our society that we frequently fail to recognize it. However, it is evident that ageism has a number of negative effects on people's physical and mental health, as well as society at large. Many times, the unfavorable stereotypes that support ageism misrepresent older people as forgetful, physically frail and lonely, giving a negative view of aging. This presentation highlights aging stereotypes. Methodology: Three focus groups were conducted with 29 participants aged 55+ at a senior center in Johnson City, Tennessee. The participants were divided into groups based on age: 55–64, 65–74, and 75+. They were then instructed to complete a Societal Stereotypes of Senior Citizens Checklist by identifying stereotypes they have been affected by and stereotypes they felt were the most harmful. The focus groups were then conducted and lasted an hour on average. Data were transcribed and analyzed using Atlas.ti qualitative software. Results: Four of the stereotypes that were most frequently selected in both categories included: (1) Mental and physical deterioration are inevitable in old age, (2) Older workers cannot work as effectively as younger workers, (3) Aging makes it difficult to learn new skills and (4) Aging is a depressing experience. Experiences shared during the focus groups demonstrated these stereotypes. Participants highlighted misconceptions and discriminations faced or personally experienced due to aging. Implications: Experiencing discrimination due to age can have an impact on a person’s mental and physical health, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing. These findings highlight the misconceptions around aging and the discrimination experienced as a result of ageist stereotypes in our society. Raising awareness about these negative stereotypes is crucial for reducing ageism. Keywords: Ageism, Aging Stereotypes, Discrimination, Seniors
Start Time
16-4-2025 2:30 PM
End Time
16-4-2025 3:30 PM
Room Number
311
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Presentation Subtype
Grad/Comp Orals
Presentation Category
Health
Faculty Mentor
Erin Mauck
Stereotypes of Aging: An Exploratory Study on the Lived Experience of Ageism
311
Introduction: Ageism, the prejudice against older people based on unfavorable and false assumptions, is so pervasive in our society that we frequently fail to recognize it. However, it is evident that ageism has a number of negative effects on people's physical and mental health, as well as society at large. Many times, the unfavorable stereotypes that support ageism misrepresent older people as forgetful, physically frail and lonely, giving a negative view of aging. This presentation highlights aging stereotypes. Methodology: Three focus groups were conducted with 29 participants aged 55+ at a senior center in Johnson City, Tennessee. The participants were divided into groups based on age: 55–64, 65–74, and 75+. They were then instructed to complete a Societal Stereotypes of Senior Citizens Checklist by identifying stereotypes they have been affected by and stereotypes they felt were the most harmful. The focus groups were then conducted and lasted an hour on average. Data were transcribed and analyzed using Atlas.ti qualitative software. Results: Four of the stereotypes that were most frequently selected in both categories included: (1) Mental and physical deterioration are inevitable in old age, (2) Older workers cannot work as effectively as younger workers, (3) Aging makes it difficult to learn new skills and (4) Aging is a depressing experience. Experiences shared during the focus groups demonstrated these stereotypes. Participants highlighted misconceptions and discriminations faced or personally experienced due to aging. Implications: Experiencing discrimination due to age can have an impact on a person’s mental and physical health, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing. These findings highlight the misconceptions around aging and the discrimination experienced as a result of ageist stereotypes in our society. Raising awareness about these negative stereotypes is crucial for reducing ageism. Keywords: Ageism, Aging Stereotypes, Discrimination, Seniors