CHFD 3710(2) - CHFD 3710 Why study aging Understand current social issues An increasing older population Ageism A process of systematic stereotyping

CHFD 3710 Why study aging? • Understand current social issues • An increasing older population Ageism • “A process of systematic stereotyping & discrimination against people because they are old”—Robert Butler • Reflects deep-seated uneasiness by the young & middle-aged • Revulsion & distaste for: • Growing old • Disease • Disability • Fear of powerlessness, uselessness,death Ageism (research) • 77% of a sample of older people experienced at least one incidence of ageism from others • Disrespect • Assumption that they were from ill • People felt stronger negative associations about age than race or gender • Older adults had just as strong an age bias as younger people • Some older adults try to distance themselves from being “old” *#1 product used in the world—hair dye* “New” Ageism: The Desire to Help Older People • Compassionate stereotype