Stacey Gordon led a paper at NYU’s Center for Health and Aging Innovation (CHAI). Ernest Gonzales coauthored the paper. The article was published in the Journal of Gerontological Social Work. The authors say ageism inside families is a serious problem similar to racism and sexism.
The study says norms, traditions, and false beliefs shape how families treat older relatives. Siblings and friends can repeat ageist ideas. The paper gives examples, even the remark “No one over 75 should have an iPhone!” The authors say family changes can help older adults feel more respected and supported. The findings were shared on Futurity.
Difficult words
- ageism — Unfair treatment because someone is older.
- norms — A usual rule or way people behave.
- traditions — A custom from the past shared in families.
- beliefs — An idea that a person thinks is true.
- remark — A short spoken or written comment.
- respected — Care and good treatment for another person.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever seen older relatives treated unfairly in a family? What happened?
- What family traditions or beliefs might make older people feel less respected?
- What can a family do to help an older person feel supported and respected?
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