Have you experienced ageism?

Age discrimination is when someone treats you unfairly because of your age.  

In the UK,  it’s a problem many have encountered – we have one of the worst records in Europe when it comes to age discrimination.

Age discrimination is commonly experienced in the workplace – many people over 50 report extreme difficulty finding a new job, instead being passed over by younger candidates, or have trouble being taken seriously in roles they’re already in.

It’s not just at work where ageism can show up.

Being refused things such as travel insurance, a new credit card or membership to a club or trade association because you are ‘too old’ is something most people begin to contend with in their later years.

There are also old attitudes to age that can feel very restrictive. Others sometimes automatically assume over 55s are ‘stuck in their own ways’ or are unhappy, weak or close-minded.

Segregation within age groups is also common – intergenerational friendships are still rare, meaning people miss the opportunity to understand one another and find common ground.

What do you think? Does age create a significant bias? Have you experienced ageism? Share your experiences in the comments below