Recognizing and Resisting Ageism: Views from Older Adults
Aaron Li, Natalie Galucia, Michele Dinman, Brian Carpenter, Nancy Morrow-Howell

TL;DR
This study explores how older adults experience and respond to ageism, finding that discussions about it can raise awareness and encourage resistance.
Contribution
The study introduces a novel approach to understanding and combating ageism through focus groups and follow-up surveys with older adults.
Findings
Participants often misunderstood internalized ageism, focusing more on the challenges of aging.
Discussions about ageism increased awareness and led to conversations or actions against it.
Ageism was most commonly experienced in families and businesses, with fewer incidents in healthcare and employment.
Abstract
This study aims to generate knowledge for the development of anti-ageism interventions for older people. We conducted 12 focus groups (N = 75) to explore experiences with interpersonal and internalized ageism, reactions to ageist incidents, and ideas about resisting. We conducted six-month follow-up survey interviews to gain understanding about how focus group discussions changed awareness and actions regarding ageism. Participants ranged from 60 to 91 years (M = 75); 76% were female, 56% White, 41% Black, and 20% identified as LGBTQIA+. Thematic analysis revealed that not all participants understand the concept of ageism, especially internalized ageism. Among those who did, lack of respect and feeling invisible were identified as hallmarks. Ageism most often appeared among families and in businesses and took the form of disregard and paternalism. Fewer examples were provided in health…
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Taxonomy
TopicsAging and Gerontology Research · Patient Dignity and Privacy · Elder Abuse and Neglect
