AGEISM REFERS TO DISCRIMINATION or prejudice against any person based on age, both young and old.
Ageism in long-term care facilities can impact all people residing and working in the home.
Young workers may hold ageist beliefs about the older adults for whom they care. Older adults may hold ageist beliefs about the young workers caring for them. Ageism involves stereotypical thinking and can manifest in many ways ranging from subtle biases to overt mistreatment.
Some of the common manifestations of ageism toward older people in long-term care settings can include: Dismissing or ignoring symptoms and concerns
Attributing treatable conditions to “just getting old”: An older person’s complaints of pain, fatigue, memory issues, or incontinence might be disregarded and considered an inevitable part of aging instead of being investigated for potential treatable causes.
Inappropriate communication styles Elderspeak: This involves using over simplified language or speaking in a high pitched or sing song tone, as you would speak to a child.
Speaking to family members instead of the older adult Even when the older person is fully capable of understanding and participating in conversations about their health.
Lack of autonomy and involvement in decision making.
Disregarding resident preferences and wishes
Not involving older adults in decisions about their daily routines, care plans, or activities.
Imposing rigid routines and standardized care plans Limiting opportunities for residents to make choices about their schedules and how they spend their days.
Ageist attitudes can foster negative quality of life for older people.
Examples include:
•Psychological wellbeing: Being treated with less respect or care can cause older adults to experience depression, anxiety, or feelings of low self-worth.
• Physical health: Ignoring symptoms or misdiagnosis can lead to poorer outcomes.
Long-term care ombudsmen challenge ageism and provide support by advocacy and empowerment of older individuals to self-advocate and participate in care planning.
•Assisting with education and training facility staff to recognize and address ageist attitudes and develop a deep understanding of person-centered care.
•Supporting policy changes: Analyzing systemic issues and providing feedback.
Challenge ageism
Everyone can challenge ageism by speaking up when you hear ageist jokes, comments, or assumptions.
•Encouraging positive inclusive language.
•Making sure all voices are heard when in a group, younger and older.
•Identifying and critiquing media portrayals that reinforce negative stereotypes.
•Participate in media campaigns and blogs that focus on aging in a positive light.
•Host discussions, workshops, or book clubs to promote discussion and challenge assumptions.
For more information about long-term care ombudsman services or becoming a certified volunteer with the program, please call 419-259-2891 or visit ombuds man.ablelaw.org/.
The program is administered, in part, through the Ohio Department of Aging. All services are provided without direct cost to consumers and can be confidential.
