Examples Of Ageism In Nursing

Ageism in Nursing

In an article written by Eymard and Douglas (2012), there is a growing discrimination against older people affecting the way they are treated in the health care setting. Moreover, Eymard and Douglas (2012) referred to this type of stereotyping and mistreatment as ageism. What is more, Eymard and Douglas (2012) cited multiple studies linked ageism to poor delivery of care. Since there is a prediction of significant growth of the older people, 65 years old and above, population in the near future, Eymard and Douglas (2012) stressed the need for health care providers to eliminate biases and work on improving health outcomes of this aging population. To start, reflecting on one’s culture, societal practice, and experiencing the older adults’ situations can lead to deeper insights of the older adults’ health needs.

For example, in the Asian culture during the late 60’s, elderlies are honored and cared for with great respect. This is probably due to the great amount of sacrifice, discipline, and dedication involved in their parenting tasks, which were then witnessed and appreciated by their children. In fact, mothers usually stayed at home and parenting from that generation involved active teaching, disciplining, and correcting their children. Moreover, the schools in the community reinforced good manners and right conducts taught at home through strict discipline and appropriate punishments, creating healthy fear of authorities among young children. Thus, older adults were valued and loved for their wisdom and sacrifice and usually treated with great care at home during their time of