Researchers at NYU’s Center for Health and Aging Innovation, led by Stacey Gordon with coauthor Ernest Gonzales, argue that ageism within families is a serious social problem, in some respects comparable to racism and sexism. Their paper in the Journal of Gerontological Social Work traces the roots of family ageism to long-standing norms, traditions about older people’s roles, negative stereotypes, and false beliefs.
The study explains that siblings and friends can communicate age bias, intentionally or not, and that older adults may internalize these ideas. The authors describe common stereotypes—dependence, physical and cognitive impairment, loneliness, deafness, lack of vitality or interest, asexuality, and helplessness—and note that some comments become jokes or micro-aggressions, for example, “No one over 75 should have an iPhone!”
The paper stresses the harm of such attitudes: they dishonor a lifetime of skills and knowledge and can reduce older adults’ autonomy, power, and self-esteem. Gordon’s 2020 paper, which had more than 5,500 downloads, introduced the concept of using a “critical consciousness” in families to see how larger social forces affect treatment of older relatives.
The recent work offers practical steps: family members who step back and reflect can weaken stereotypes. As Gordon writes, “Knowing that a supportive family member is present, reliable, and consistent whether close by or afar, can have a positive impact on an older adult’s attitude and expectations about their own mental and physical health and can also provide older adults with a sense of hope and control of their future aging trajectory.” The findings and recommendations were shared in a post on Futurity.
Difficult words
- ageism — unjust negative attitudes toward older people
- stereotypes — oversimplified belief about a group of people
- internalize — accept an idea as part of one's own thinking
- micro-aggressions — small insulting or dismissive comments or acts
- autonomy — ability to make one's own decisions and act
- critical consciousness — awareness of social forces that shape behavior
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How might a family use critical consciousness to change the treatment of an older relative? Give examples.
- What are possible effects on an older person who internalizes negative stereotypes from family members?
- What actions can family members take to support an older adult's autonomy and sense of hope?
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