Understanding and Tackling Ageism in Canada: A personal view

Ageism is one of the most pervasive forms of discrimination in Canada and around the world. Yet, its impact often goes unnoticed or is seen  as a natural part of aging. This post draws from skilled insights and the latest research to highlight the challenges ageism presents and explore meaningful ways to combat it.

In a recent 2024 IPSOS survey conducted by the Canadian Coalition Against Ageism (CCAA), troubling trends emerged regarding how Canadians perceive and experience ageism. While more than half of Canadians (54%) are familiar with the concept of ageism, 87% do not recognize how widespread it is. This is alarming, considering that half of the global population harbors ageist attitudes.

For example, how often have we heard someone say, "You’re too old to understand technology," or seen older workers passed over for promotions because younger employees are deemed more "dynamic"? These instances are so commonplace they are often not seen as discriminatory, but they perpetuate stereotypes and limit opportunities for older adults.

The survey also revealed that 64% of Canadians recognize the harm age discrimination inflicts on mental and physical health. Persistent stereotypes—such as assuming older adults are frail, unproductive, or unwilling to adapt—can lead to feelings of isolation and depression. Imagine a retired professional being dismissed as "out of touch" when seeking volunteer roles or community involvement. This subtle exclusion can erode confidence, fostering feelings of worthlessness and further disengagement.

Healthcare is one area where the consequences of ageism can be particularly devastating. Biases among healthcare providers sometimes result in older patients being dismissed or treated differently than younger ones. For instance, a senior complaining of persistent pain might be told, “It’s just part of getting older,” rather than being referred for further diagnostic tests. Similarly, older patients often receive fewer aggressive treatments for conditions like cancer or heart disease, based on assumptions about their "quality of life" or ability to recover.

Addressing these biases starts with raising awareness among healthcare professionals and implementing mandatory training programs. For example, hospitals and clinics can use case studies highlighting the dangers of dismissive attitudes to ensure providers prioritize symptoms over stereotypes. Additionally, involving older adults in inpatient advisory boards can help healthcare systems design services that truly meet their needs.

Beyond the healthcare system, ageism imposes a broader societal cost. Only 44% of Canadians recognize the economic impact of age discrimination, which can include sidelining experienced workers or overlooking older entrepreneurs. This limits the contributions of a population with immense knowledge and expertise.

Moreover, self-ageism—reported by 31% of survey respondents—compounds these challenges. When individuals internalize negative beliefs about aging, they might avoid pursuing new opportunities, assuming, “It’s too late for me to start something new.” Such attitudes can lead to reduced physical activity, diminished social connections, and poorer health outcomes.

In response to the survey findings, the CCAA and International Longevity Centre Canada (ILC) identified four key initiatives at a June 2024 conference in Ottawa. These priorities aim to create a more inclusive society and support older adults in living fulfilling lives:

1. Health Care Must Change
   To ensure older adults receive equitable care, healthcare systems must actively combat biases. For example, encouraging providers to use age-neutral language—like asking "How can we help you thrive?" instead of "What aches and pains are you dealing with?"—can shift perspectives. Programs such as the Geriatric Emergency Medicine Initiative in British Columbia, which trains emergency staff to meet the unique needs of older patients, offer models for nationwide implementation.
2. Education is Critical
   Incorporating ageism education in schools and workplaces can challenge stereotypes before they take root. For instance, interactive workshops where students and older adults collaborate on projects—such as oral history interviews—can highlight the value of lived experiences and reduce prejudice. Similarly, workplace seminars addressing the benefits of age diversity can foster inclusive practices.
3. Intergenerational Connection
   Bridging generational gaps is key to breaking down stereotypes. Programs like “Adopt a Grandparent” in Toronto pair seniors with younger volunteers, fostering meaningful relationships and mutual understanding. These initiatives show younger generations that aging is a natural and valuable phase of life, not a decline.
4. Nothing About Us Without Us
   Older adults must actively participate in decisions that affect their lives. Organizations like the Manitoba Seniors Advocate ensure that seniors’ voices guide provincial policies and programs. Including older people on advisory councils or as keynote speakers at conferences brings their lived expertise to the forefront, ensuring that solutions are both practical and impactful.

Fighting ageism is not just a matter of fairness; it’s essential for creating a society that values all its members, regardless of age. Whether you are retired, preparing for retirement, or supporting older adults, understanding the nuances of ageism can empower you to advocate for change. By addressing biases in healthcare, fostering education, and promoting intergenerational connections, we can work toward a future where aging is celebrated—not stigmatized.