In class discussion today we got to hear lots of different perspectives that I found interesting. Like ableism, I feel like ageism isn't talked about too much or aware to people as much as things like racism and such. While the image of the older woman above is representative of ageism, it is also not the only type of person that is affected.
For both young and older people, ageism can negatviely affect people in many ways. For example, they could possibly be discriminated against when applying for jobs and leadership positions. Young peoples' ideas could be ignored and older people can be assumed to be incompetent, due to age. One thing that I thought about was how young people can be taken advantage of by older adults in a sexual manner because they assume that younger people aren't able to be in charge of themselves and their bodies. They may feel as if they can intimidate young people because of their older age.
Age can leave people very vulnerable in many aspects of their lives. I think the most important thing for everyone to do to stop ageism is to learn not to assume things. That intersects with other things, such as ableism. It's not right to assume that they are less capable of things because they have a disability or because of age.
You always have great pictures! When I saw the first one I was like wow, that is exactly how society treats the older population! And then the second one is the same thing! If you think about it, no matter what age you are, you will always be criticized because off your age! Whether young or old, we are all victims. And well like you said, the best way to stop all this is by not assuming. If one doesnt assume one is to old or to young to understand or do something, then people would not be discriminated. We should treat people by who they are not their age. Age is nothing but a number. Great post!
ReplyDeleteNikki -
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you on this. Just like a person should not be judged by skin color, ethnicity, SES, or any other societal labels, AGE and physical/mental ability should not be a point of judgement either. People, in general, have so much potential to do and be anything they'd put their minds to, but society shuts many of us down with so-called rules (which are made up and enforced by the dominant group). Just imagine what kind of world this would be if no one was judge by their outer appearance. Great post (as usual).
Nikki,
ReplyDeleteGreat post. I like the pictures you were able to find. I also agree with you about most people thinking of ageism in regards to elder adults, but young adults aslo face a great deal of ageism.