Harmful health effects of ageism seen in many countries

A new review of more than 400 studies finds that ageism is linked to worse health outcomes in adults. The studies included in the review looked at a host of effects tied to ageism, including how older adults are excluded from research, are denied work opportunities, and how ageism leads to worse physical and mental health.

More than 95% of studies found that ageism led to worse health outcomes, as did nearly 75% of the associations between ageism and health. Although all 45 countries examined in the studies revealed this link, the review also found that the negative effects were more pronounced in less developed countries. Older people with less education were also more likely to experience the adverse health effects of ageism, further driving inequity in older ages.  In essence, ageism is pervasive and kills.

Impact of ageism on health in 11 health domains: Distribution of studies.

SAVE THE DATE: Thewlis Lecture on Gerontology and Geriatrics 

Beca Levy, Ph.D., a co-author of this study, will be giving a talk entitled, “Why Ageism Can Threaten Your Health and Shorten Your Life” at this year’s Thewlis Lecture on Gerontology and Geriatrics at the Edwards Auditorium on Wednesday, April 1st, 4:00 p.m.