What is ageism?
ageism
/ˈeɪdʒɪz(ə)m/
noun
1.
prejudice or discrimination on the grounds of a person's age.
World Health Organization (WHO) Definition of Ageism
Ageism is the stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination against people on the basis of their age. Ageism is widespread and an insidious practice which has harmful effects on the health of older adults. For older people, ageism is an everyday challenge. Overlooked for employment, restricted from social services and stereotyped in the media, ageism marginalises and excludes older people in their communities.
Ageism is everywhere, yet it is the most socially “normalized” of any prejudice, and is not widely countered – like racism or sexism. These attitudes lead to the marginalisation of older people within our communities and have negative impacts on their health and well-being. learn more about the misconceptions of ageing.
What can you do
Signup to be an Age Concern New Zealand Dignity Champion and promote the values of the pledge to stand against ageism.
Age-friendly cities
“An age-friendly city encourages active ageing by optimizing opportunities for health, participation and security in order to enhance quality of life as people age" - WHO.
New Zealand has a ageing and growing older population so we need to make sure our communities are prepared. Learn more about
Age-friendly communities in New Zealand.
Visit the age-friendly world site to see how New Zealand fits into this global movement.