Ageism remains one of the most accepted forms of discrimination in society today. It shows up in subtle ways in language, the media, and everyday attitudes that cast ageing as a decline rather than a continued stage of growth, autonomy and value. Find out why we should all take the time to speak out and check our own language and attitudes, as well.
Ageism doesn’t just influence how society sees older people, it can shape how older people see themselves. Media often portray older adults as frail, forgetful or out of touch. These stereotypes are not only inaccurate, they are harmful. Over time, they can be internalised, leading to feelings of invisibility or helplessness.
Age, or a medical diagnosis, doesn’t take away your right to be heard, to make decisions, or to be treated with dignity. Put simply, your rights don’t age.
Every older person has the right to:
• Be respected and heard
• Live free from fear or control
• Have their needs and preferences recognised
These are basic human rights.
Equal adult status and elder abuse
All adults, no matter what their age, deserve the same respect, autonomy and dignity. Sadly, older people are often excluded from decisions or treated as incapable. The term we refer to regularly at Advocare is ‘equal adult status.’
The concept of equal adult status is rooted in the idea that all adults, regardless of age, deserve the same respect, autonomy and dignity. Yet, older people are often denied this equality through decisions made for them rather than with them. Elder abuse, whether it’s physical, emotional, financial, or through neglect, frequently stems from attitudes that view older people as incapable or inferior. These attitudes pave the way for control, manipulation, and disrespect, stripping older people of their independence and reducing their sense of self-worth.
Empowerment starts small
Respecting equal adult status means involving older people in decisions, supporting their choices, and challenging the idea that others know best.
Preventing mistreatment begins with small but powerful actions:
• Ask questions until things make sense. You deserve to understand
• Speak up if someone starts taking over decisions
• Don’t blame yourself. Being a parent doesn’t mean putting up with poor treatment
• Say no without guilt
• Stay connected. Know community is powerful protection.
A word to younger generations
Support older people as they once supported you. Be patient, inclusive and kind. Encourage independence and confidence. And if you’re a carer feeling overwhelmed, reach out. There is help available for you, too.
Mistreatment and exclusion are never okay. Ageing is not about loss, it’s a life stage filled with experience, strength and value. Let’s make sure we treat it that way.
(Thanks to our Advocacy Manager, Shawnee Van Poeteren for this article).
