Karen’s Korner
“Ageism’ is a form of discrimination where people are mistreated based on their age. It is rooted in a lack of knowledge, prejudice, and stereotypes. Despite being a form of discrimination, ageism is often not taken seriously, and it is even considered one of the last socially acceptable prejudices.” (NIH Office of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion)
The first time the term was used was back in 1969 by a renowned physician who was the first director of the National Institute on Aging, Dr. Robert N. Butler. This organization hoped to increase awareness and understanding of negative stereotypes and discriminatory practices against our aging community, and to improve the treatment of seniors in the workplace.
Our seniors are the “Greatest Generation,” who deserve respect, recognition, and appreciation for building a strong foundation that has led the way for other generations to flourish.
Our seniors do not fit this ageism mold today.
· For workers age 65 and older, employment tripled from 1988 to 2018, while employment among younger workers grew by about a third.
· Between 1988 and 2018, employment growth for women age 65 and older outpaced that for men.
· Among people age 75 and older, the number of employed people nearly quadrupled, increasing from 461,000 in 1988 to 1.8 million in 2018.
Our seniors provide essential knowledge, a very effective work force, and encouragement for all of us. They have and are still paving the way for the generations to come. I am so grateful for each and every senior at the Webster Parish Council on Aging. They are awesome!