This Chair Rocks

01What's ageism all about?

Ever caught yourself making a joke about 'senior moments'? Or perhaps you've found yourself assuming that an older person wouldn't be interested in the latest technology or trends? If so, you've stumbled into the realm of ageism, a form of discrimination that's as pervasive as it is overlooked. Ageism, as Ashton Applewhite explains in "This Chair Rocks", is the stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination against people on the basis of their age. It's a social construct, much like racism or sexism, and it's deeply ingrained in our societal norms and attitudes. Now, let's talk about some of the common stereotypes and prejudices associated with aging. You've probably heard them all: older people are forgetful, they're grumpy, they're resistant to change, they're not tech-savvy. But here's the thing - these stereotypes are just that, stereotypes. They're not based on fact, but on assumptions and generalizations. For instance, Applewhite points out that while memory may decline with age, wisdom and problem-solving abilities often increase. And as for being resistant to change? Studies have shown that older individuals are just as capable of learning new skills and adapting to new situations as their younger counterparts. These stereotypes aren't just harmless jokes, though. They have real, tangible effects on older individuals and society as a whole. They can lead to discrimination in the workplace, in healthcare, and in everyday interactions. They can also contribute to feelings of worthlessness and invisibility among older individuals, leading to decreased mental and physical health. So, where do these stereotypes come from? A large part of the blame can be placed on media and culture. Older individuals are often portrayed as frail, helpless, or out of touch in movies, TV shows, and advertisements. These portrayals reinforce ageist attitudes and beliefs, making them seem normal and acceptable. But as Applewhite argues, we need a shift in these portrayals. We need to see older individuals as they truly are - diverse, capable, and valuable members of society. Another insidious aspect of ageism is the concept of internalized ageism. This is when older individuals absorb the negative messages about aging that are prevalent in society, leading to self-doubt and decreased self-esteem. It's a vicious cycle - society perpetuates negative stereotypes about aging, older individuals internalize these stereotypes, and then they act in ways that reinforce the stereotypes. But there are ways to combat internalized ageism. Applewhite suggests challenging negative beliefs about aging, seeking out positive role models, and celebrating the benefits of aging. In conclusion, ageism is a pervasive form of discrimination that affects all of us, whether we realize it or not. It's rooted in societal norms and attitudes, perpetuated by media and culture, and internalized by older individuals. But by challenging these ageist attitudes and beliefs, we can create a society that values and respects individuals of all ages. So, the next time you catch yourself making an ageist joke or assumption, take a moment to reconsider. Your perception of aging might just be the first thing that needs to change.