According to the Global report on ageism, half of the world’s population are ageist and immediate action needs to be taken.
The report found that ageism is prevalent in most aspects of society, including in the provision of health and social care, in the workplace, media and the legal system. For older people, ageism can be particularly devastating, as it is associated with a shorter lifespan, poorer physical and mental health, and slower recovery from disability and cognitive decline. Ageism also increases their social isolation and loneliness (both of which are associated with serious health problems), puts them at greater risk of financial insecurity, restricts their ability to express their sexuality and may increase the risk of violence and abuse against older people.
Following a visit to New Zealand in 2020, United Nations Investigator Rosa Kornfeld-Matte found older Kiwis were at risk from ageist attitudes, employment discrimination, lower incomes, material hardship, poor health, abuse and neglect, isolation and loneliness. In a report published in August 2020, Kornfeld-Matte stated:
“New Zealand is undergoing an essential age-structural change, which requires urgent adequate action now to meet the ensuing challenges."
“Reports of abuse and neglect of older persons are increasing. Older persons in New Zealand are also susceptible to economic and financial abuse, including by families impatient for their inheritance, and families forcing their relatives to move into rest homes.”
The report implores that “we all have a role to play in preventing and responding to ageism” and that it is imperative that we “change the narrative around age and ageing.” It recommends all governments and stakeholders enforce new and existing policies and legislation that address ageism, provide education to tackle misconceptions and stereotypes about certain age groups, and develop programmes that foster intergenerational contact.
At United Nations have declared 2021 – 2030 the Decade of Healthy Ageing, with the aim of ensuring the “the dignity and rights of every human being are respected and protected.” The Global Report – and the recommendations it has made – are certainly a step in the right direction.
The Global report on ageism was released by the World Health Organisation (WHO), Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in March 2021. Find the full report here.
Updated: 21 Apr 2023