Which term best describes discrimination toward older people?

Which term best describes discrimination toward older people?

• A. Elder Phobia
• B. Elderism
• C. Elder Neglect
• D. Ageism

Answer: (D)

Ageism is the term used to describe discrimination toward older people. It covers both the beliefs (stereotypes) and the actions (prejudice and unfair treatment) that treat people differently solely because of their age, affecting areas like work, health care, housing, and media portrayal. This labeling is the standard in research and practice for bias against aging individuals. The other terms don’t fit as well: elder neglect describes failing to provide needed care, elderism is used less consistently and isn’t the widely accepted label for discrimination, and elder phobia isn’t a standard term in professional literature.

Ageism is the term used to describe discrimination toward older people. It covers both the beliefs (stereotypes) and the actions (prejudice and unfair treatment) that treat people differently solely because of their age, affecting areas like work, health care, housing, and media portrayal. This labeling is the standard in research and practice for bias against aging individuals. The other terms don’t fit as well: elder neglect describes failing to provide needed care, elderism is used less consistently and isn’t the widely accepted label for discrimination, and elder phobia isn’t a standard term in professional literature.