Which term refers to discrimination against older people?

Which term refers to discrimination against older people?

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

Answer: (D)

Discrimination based on age, especially toward older adults, is captured by ageism. Ageism means holding negative stereotypes about aging and acting on them in ways that disadvantage people because they are older. This can show up in many settings—hiring or promotion decisions that favor younger workers, assumptions about an older person’s abilities in healthcare, or media that portray aging as frail or useless. That combination of prejudice and its concrete impact on opportunities and treatment is what makes ageism the correct term. The other terms aren’t appropriate here. A term like elder phobia would imply fear of older people rather than discrimination against them. Elderism is a less common label and not the widely accepted term in most professional contexts. Elder neglect refers to failing to meet an older person’s basic needs and safety, which is a form of mistreatment rather than a prejudice or discriminatory attitude based on age.

Discrimination based on age, especially toward older adults, is captured by ageism. Ageism means holding negative stereotypes about aging and acting on them in ways that disadvantage people because they are older. This can show up in many settings—hiring or promotion decisions that favor younger workers, assumptions about an older person’s abilities in healthcare, or media that portray aging as frail or useless. That combination of prejudice and its concrete impact on opportunities and treatment is what makes ageism the correct term.

The other terms aren’t appropriate here. A term like elder phobia would imply fear of older people rather than discrimination against them. Elderism is a less common label and not the widely accepted term in most professional contexts. Elder neglect refers to failing to meet an older person’s basic needs and safety, which is a form of mistreatment rather than a prejudice or discriminatory attitude based on age.