Why does Ageism cause harm?
Ageist remarks cross over all generations, making it easy to slip into a pattern of abuse. There is a gray area where comments may be taken as ageist but are only slightly on the edge of negative. This behavior often perpetuates Age Discrimination.
- You may laugh along with others at such comments, while cringing inside.
- Later you may think about those who were targeted.
- If you have been sensitized to such degrading remarks, it will be easier to call them out.
- It’s not ok to use someone’s age as a weapon, to ignore their skills and talents.
- In fact, making stray comments in the workplace can put you at risk for a lawsuit.
The Facts:
There is growing public and private sector concern about growth in the 65+ population, expected to reach 20% in 2030. This poses both enormous opportunities as well as threats to the standard of living we now enjoy. Policy makers are advancing their understanding and taking action to avoid devastation to the well being of Older Adults. At the same time, savvy entrepreneurs are developing new businesses to address the needs of this market.
The California Master Plan for Aging – Five Bold Goals for 2030:
Housing for All Ages and Stages.
Target: Millions of New Housing Options to Age Well.
Health Re-imagined.
Target: Close the Equity Gap in and Increase Life Expectancy.
Inclusion and Equity, Not Isolation.
Target: Keep Increasing Life Satisfaction as We Age.
Caregiving That Works.
Target: One Million High-Quality Caregiving Jobs.
Affording Aging.
Target: Close the Equity Gap in and Increase Elder Economic Sufficiency.
U.S. Census Bureau Demographic changes:
From Population Pyramid to Population Rectangle
