AGEISM IN TANZANIA'S HEALTH SECTOR: A REFLECTIVE INQUIRY AND INVESTIGATION

This paper reports on the existence of ageism in Tanzania social settings with reflection to the health sector. Ageism has been recently exposed in our society despite its long history in Tanzania. The study employed a case study design through which interviews, observation guide and guided questions were employed to collect data from 48 participants. The findings show that ageism in Tanzania is common in the health sector. In this area, ageism is evident in access and availability of health services to elderly people, long waiting queues and referral to specialist’s services. It was further revealed that, elderly people are continually in poor health; they become tired so easily and prone to prolonged illnesses. It is concluded that ageism is so rampart in Tanzania’s health sector and it affects elderly people so severely as compared to other age groups. Thus, it is high time for all stakeholders to realise the potentiality of elderly people and acknowledge the enormity of their experience and wisdom for the survival of this nation and ensure that all their entitlements are granted in fully.