Patterns of Ageism

Until recently, in Canada, there has not been much research

documenting the extent of prejudice towards older persons. Robert

Butler (1969) first coined the term ageism and defined it as “..another

form of bigotry” and “a process of systematic stereotyping and

discrimination against people who are old.”

Ageism is different from the other types of “ism” such as sexism

and racism because, unlike them, ageism, in general may affect

everyone or at least everyone who lives long enough” says Erdmann

Palmore who indicates although there are positive and negative

forms of ageism, in general is has negative consequences to seniors.

Some demographic factors are: Level of education, Ethnicity,

Employment and/or Type of Pension, Distance of closest relative,

neighbor, Marital status, Organizational Membership, Level of

volunteering, Attitudes toward Local and Provincial Governments

Below are three figures indicating Ageism Relationships