Ageism

Ageism is a term coined by Dr. Robert Butler in 1968 to describe the “systematic stereotyping of and discrimination against older people because they are old, in much the same way as racism and sexism are responses to skin color and gender”.

Ageism can have many forms and is connected to the mistreatment of older employers at the workplace. Many employers often have negative viewpoints towards older employees.

What does ageism at the workplace look like?

• Learning opportunities are automatically offered to younger employees — not older ones
• Not considering older employees for challenging tasks.
• Being left out
• Being passed over for raises and promotions.
• Disparaging comments and remarks about age