Fact 6: Ageism may now be more pervasive than sexism or racism

Ageism – discrimination against a person on the basis of their age – has serious consequences for older people and societies at large. Ageism can take many forms, including prejudicial attitudes, discriminatory practices, or policies that perpetuate ageist beliefs. It can obstruct sound policy development, and it can significantly undermine the quality of health and social care that older people receive.