A new analysis by WHO shows that negative or ageist attitudes towards older people are widespread. Ageism or prejudice or discrimination on the grounds of a person’s age, also negatively affects older people’s physical and mental health. Around 60% of respondents in the WHO “World Values Survey” reported that older people are not respected. More than 83,000 people in 57 countries took part in the survey which assessed attitudes to older people across all age groups. The lowest levels of respect were reported in high income countries, the WHO website reported.
Recently published research shows that older people, who hold negative views about their own ageing, live on average 7.5 years less than people with positive attitudes. “Like sexism and racism, changing social norms is possible. It is time to stop defining people by their age. This will result in more prosperous, equitable and healthier societies,” said John Beard, WHO Director of Ageing and Life Course.
