Ageism: Discrimination that Must Disappear

Introduction: Ageism or old age is a very old concept and refers to negative stereotypes and prejudicial attitudes toward old age and how these are reflected in psychological and social problems. Discussion: Ageism has been identified as the third major form of discrimination in our society after racism and sexism. Robert Butler coined in 1969 the term “ageism” to refer to the set of negative attitudes towards the elderly, social stereotypes, of prejudice and discrimination, maintained by the population to the detriment of old age and the aging process as a cycle of life associated with illness, suffering and loneliness, based on the belief that aging makes less attractive, sexual and productive people. Conclusion: Strategies that combat ageism consist of creating intergenerational teams and organizing campaigns to challenge myths and wrong stereotypes that hinder the ability of older people to participate.