Competence and ageing

Multiple definitions of “competence” are used in the literature, including capable, skillful and intelligent. It is often examined in conjunction with “warmth”, as these are the two core dimensions of social judgement and stereotype content theories used by some researchers. Competence stereotypes are a challenge to untangle because studies use varied definitions and stereotypes frequently overlap. Being seen as less competent has implications for older job candidates competing with younger candidates, even when an older candidate may simultaneously be seen as warm. An older worker’s ability to innovate (relating to idea implementation) is a factor in project managers’ perceptions of their competence. A large, multi-country study in Europe found that older workers are more satisfied with their jobs when they live in a country that views older workers as competent

 Ageism has been identified as one of five challenges facing older Canadians in the labour force.Ageism may occur as an age-based stereotype: or as a mechanism to judge others quickly. Stereotypes arise from societal culture and our experiences with members of stereotyped groups. Entrenched stereotypes about older workers are possibly due to implicit attitudes…assumed to have developed over an individual’s lifetime. Paternalistic attitudes are often reflected in stereotypes about older adults being warm, good-natured, sincere and happy, but barely competent. Since society holds negative perceptions of age and ageing, negative attitudes towards older workers may be rooted in a broader context associating age with decline.