Fighting back against ageism
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 12 พ.ย. 2022
- Recent studies have found that over 93% of adults between 50 and 80 experience ageism, which can have negative health effects; people who have an upbeat take on getting older actually live longer. Correspondent Susan Spencer talks with Ashton Applewhite, author of "This Chair Rocks," about raising awareness of ageism; and with scholars who discuss the benefits of rejecting social cues that insult growing older.
#ageism #aging #seniors
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“You look good for your age too” is a perfect response.
My grandmother worked 40 years as a nurse. I asked her how? She told me she loved helping people get well and she lied about her age. After leaving nursing, she stayed active helping seniors. She lived to 96.
GOD Bless your grandmother!!!
@@suzettelilly9462 besides staying very active, her diet was small portions of raw or cooked veggies and never a full plate. Didn't eat a lot of meat. Drank hot tea and not coffee. Gave up smoking at age 75.
As a senior myself, 65 is VERY different from 80. Be your own advocate. Stop the insane hair dying & face lifting. Celebrate YOUR aging!
Fact!!! I'm 73 and being 60something was indeed very different.
Stopped the hair dying during Covid. It came down to, I just don’t want to pay $50-$100 every 6 weeks just to hide my grey. Now I even cut my own hair😂
Would love to....except I am having trouble getting a job
@@christineolsson5037 Why would you even want to work for an outfit who doesn't or can't appreciate you for who you are, your unique experiences in life.
I am afraid of physical attacks if I stop dying my a hair.
I am in the age range discussed here. I am on my third career, busy, traveling and always curious. Ageism has hit me several times, but I just hold my head high and keep moving forward. I appreciate this article and wish this topic was discussed more widely.
Great comment..
I agree 100%
Linda, ever heard of the Gray Panthers? Ageism is nothing new and it's been battled forever, but it never changes. Ppl know it's a mirage, a put on. Relax, be happy, have fun.
So old yet such thin skin. You poor thing must be so grateful.
@@bryanutility9609 It doesn't matter how old YOU are, you're nasty, regardless...and can't even write correctly. Poor thing.
I’m 65. I didn’t intend to retire at 59, but society said otherwise. When I decided to keep working because I didn’t feel old, it was constant rejection. I must of sent out 100 resumes, but no body wanted me. It was devastating. I feel old. I feel unwanted. Yes, ageism exists. I suspect I won’t live that much longer.
I have known people who faded at 60 and people who were in their 80s who were stunningly sharp. Age isn't a valid measuring tool. I knew this one guy who had been a bush pilot in Alaska in his 20s, and more than 60 years and 13 children later with his Inuit wife, he was amazing. He gave me a lift to a neighboring city in his little gas efficient vehicle. On the way he "flew" down the interstate with all the confidence of folks in their 30s. He even gave me tips on how to save gasoline and still drive as fast as you could safely and mostly legally do so. He was more intellectually stimulating than most of the people I deal with on a daily basis. I'm convinced that a person's attitude and state of emotional maturity far outranks age any day.
Yeah-I met someone who was 80 once, and looked so good. She had protected herself from the sun all her life. She had a sun hat on when we met. She didn't look a day over 55 Be carefull, sunbathers. If skin cancer doesn't get you, wrinkles will
It’s not the year of the car, it’s the mileage.
Cynthia, you missed the point!
I am 71 years old, still working and finishing a graduate degree. In my graduate program, faculty look to me as someone who can be counted on, can speak to and does show up for class! My internships haven’t been a problem either because I am responsible and will get the work done.
I have not married - that was a choice and do not have children -. I knew I could not manage a child without a partner -- that was my personal decision. - so I did not have children. Yes, there’s is ageism everywhere and yes it is illegal -- I just have found a way to work around that with an employer who has never even hinted that I ought to consider retiring. And expect when I graduate I will work with older populations who will welcome someone older to speak with.
Ann, I am so glad and happy for you, we all just have to keep doing and keep going, this is what our brains need, never stop!
Like yourself, Ann I never married nor had children and was a career woman all my adult life. I retired last year from corporate life in my 60's and became absolutely miserable so, I now work part-time and my enthusiasm and energy was revived as I still have plenty of gas in my tank.
Nonetheless, although healthy, I must admit there are physical changes associated with aging that was not previously there which makes me concerned about how important it will be to have a support system later in life, especially for those of us who never had children. How do you intend to work through those impending issues? Just curious.
Thanks for your good wishes, Elizabeth! It is essential that I am thinking, using my brain and challenged every single day! And all the best to you …just keep going and stay challenged! It is essential!
Hi, Valencia: I have support systems in place and do think it is essential to have that. So glad you are working part time ….it adds structure to the day and maybe think about taking a class starting in January in whatever interests you. I am interested in ceramics and will get back in the studio next year….have been away from it due to COVID.
Oh! I walk a ton….that is really important or some sort of physical exercise. There is a new sport that is great for all ages : Pickleball : check it out. Too long to type! Cheers!
Keep on breaking trail and leading by example, Ann! Five stars!
My last tech job was at the largest search company. I actually had someone say to me during one of 10 interviews, “I’m glad to see a seasoned professional here.” I was definitely bringing the age average up in my department. I left after less than a year. It was like working in a Lord of the Flies novel. I now work with dead artists…I restore artwork. They don’t care how old you are.
I missed the part where you were discriminated against. Calling to a seasoned pro is a compliment. You got hired and left of your own free will. You are not a victim, especially if you were working for that pesky search engine company, that would put you in the top 1% in the world. Cheer up
How did you go from tech to restoring art work? Sounds fascinating.
I love getting older. Its so oddly amazing to see my face change. I am slowly looking more and more like my grandmother, who I loved so much, who I thought was the most beautiful woman in the world. I pray that the older I get the more I turn into her. I do look much younger “for my age” but even as I get older it will be ok.
That's beautiful. 💖
That's a really great attitude and perspective. Thank you.
It’s so unfair to old people. When I worked at Amazon there were several seniors putting in work 💪. Even more so than us in our 20s
Unfair to the society as a whole, too. Think of all the resources in experience, expertise, etc. that could be shared with a community but go untapped because the gate is barred to people over a certain age.
I doubt they were actually old, since old is after retirement age. Calling people old who are not is also ageist and patronizing.
I'm 63 and run rings around my younger counterparts at work every day! When people come up to me and find out my age they tell me they are surprised and that I don't "look 63"! I tell them I do look 63 because I am 63! I walk about 11 miles a day at work, 5 days a week and hope to be doing it for the next decade to come!
I know people who act decrepit and they're 30! It's a mindset and you are what you think! Keep moving! 😉
absolutely.......KEEP MOVING! I can't hammer that home enough to peps I know.....
IF you are not glued to a phone all day long you are already ahead of the little boys and girls that work there for productivity.
"I tell them I do look 63 because I am 63!" EXCELLENT response!!!! 😉
Many entrepreneurs are older women. It is oftentimes hard to get hired, so we just start our own businesses. Ageism is alive and well, and we all need to push back on it!
I am only in my mid 40s and the silence after tons of job applications is deafening! While I do not see myself as a business owner, I now have to consider that as a possibility in the years ahead.
Yes!
My husband works in construction. A roofer stopped his work to say, “I was watching you going up and down that ladder. Excuse me, but you’re forty right?” My husband’s response, “I haven’t seen forty for thirty years!”
I've have always had a tenor voice, so I don't sound older on the phone. Young people don't have the experiences of our youth or our knowledge of tech and systems they have only read about, which gives us an added knowledge base to the latest tech we work on. I always smile when after troubleshooting and resolving a problem that the younger workers could not solve, I tell them what my age is, they almost always exclaim "you're a boomer", and "how long have you been doing this", I answer "since before you were born.
I always ignored the ism's and as we said in our youth "just keep on trucking"
there's a difference between 50 and 86....I work for a company that targets older people. I have been told consistently that my clients just "aren't capable of understanding" due to their age. It's pretty degrading and unhelpful. What's worse is that they are given free reign to be as terrible, nasty, and disrespectful to us as much as they want.
I do not dine out with my ninety one year old father and his lady friend. They are so rude to service workers.
@@BrianMorisky Wre they always rude and crude? Age doesn't mean degradation.
Those undesirable behaviors seem to magnify with some as they get older. They were probably always rude with a feeling of entitlement
Like the cult did for Trump
If you live long enough u will go back to a little kid look at Trump but just is not a baby like Trump some old people are weak mind like Trump
I am 51 this year. I have no intention of retiring over the next decade. I am going to keep working to stay mentally sharp.
I have been having such a hard time finding a job and I believe it's because I'm older. I've been unemployed for a year and a half!
Maria Shriver just offered an INCREDIBLE week long seminar through Sounds True on thriving life after 65. She had so many wonderful speakers covering a broad and fascinating array of topics. Sleep, movement and nutrition are of course important yet much of lifelong vitality comes from mental stimulation, play, living authentically, learning and trying new things, etc. Kudos to those who are out riding bikes!
My 75 years young man rides a bike.
I once had a young colleague ask me, "how much longer are you going to be with us?" I replied, "what, am I dying?"
It was so annoying when my younger co-workers used to tell me that I looked tired when I felt fine. I just thought to myself 'It will get you too Honeybun'
I earned a second degree when I was 65, having started to work on it when I was 56. No one would give me a job-apparently I had become brain dead by the age of...what? I couldn't figure it out. I gave up. The rest is nasty. I'm 82 now and I still do some freelance graphic design, but I really would have liked a proper job when I got out of school.
Good for you! 67 here and learning design for the first time online, and loving it. Left my corporate life and work from home now. Lower pay, for sure, but my stress level is practically non-existent. I didn't realize what a pressure cooker I was in until I was out. It is so detreimental to our bodies. I pay the price for some of it now. Still, it is a good place to be now. Thanks for sharing!
In an interview a manager asked me if I would have trouble working for a young boss. Red flag for sure!
Wow, this is awesome! I am a 55 year old that has been told I don't look my age when I tell others my age. I like to tell people my age with pride. I love my 50s, it's a beautiful age and God-willing, look forward to living and doing much more.
This has been very inspirational, very inspirational, thank you!
Actually, most 50-somethings should still look great. It's 65 and older that changes the canvas but still grateful to be alive.
Ernest I am 56 and so much happy to be alive. I lost my two sisters to suicide before they turned 25. My only surviving brother is 60.
I was told that I looked good at my age, when I was 35, the actual comment was “ I hope I look as good as you when I turn 35”. now I’m 70. I fell off my bike recently because my tire hit the curb wrong. Add a low fence that broke the fall. I got back on bike and finished my ride. I do avoid heavy traffic streets after 4 near miss hits. It felt like I was a target😂
Such an important and oft overlooked topic and basis for discrimination - ageism. Excellent coverage on the subject by CBS Sunday Morning, as is their practice with all matters.
How do we prove it? Discrimination that is
I’m only 36 but even at this age I get “you look young for your age” this is to be taken as a compliment but there’s subconscious ageism behind that compliment. I love being in my 30s, I wouldn’t want to be 20 again and I’m looking forward to my 40s, 50s, and beyond if God allows. I don’t like that you’re expected to look or behave a certain way because of your age. I’ve never felt more sure of myself, empowered and grounded in my womanhood than I do now.
I wanna be in my 20s again.
You’re overthinking, probably nothing malicious when you’re being complimented. Stop trying so hard to be a victim. Subconscious ageism??? SMH 🤦♂️
@@mollieanne would you rather they stated that you look like you're in your 40's? Take it as a compliment and don't let it ruin your day or thoughts!
LOL well, ya. To some degree. Although I think women in their 60s with waist length unkempt gray & black hair pulled back in barrettes and sporting body tattoos is just a little bit, well....gross.
I think that’s an incredibly rude thing - do people really say that?? What’s the difference between that and “you’re cute, for a fat girl?”
I turned 69 last month, & there's still a lot that I can do, but some things are different. My memory is still very good for the past, but I can't think of a correct word to define what I am trying to explain, or even to myself This only happened in the past 2 years or so. Seniors can basically do what they want, if capable, but one thing I am so grateful for, is benefits!
I just turned 27, and regarding not knowing that correct word you want to say-it happens to me all the time 😊
As a 59 year old, I think older adults are not all the same. Those of us who want to continue to learn, keep active and take care of ourselves with a positive mindset can flourish as time goes by but I know many who are negative, cynical, narrow minded and inflexible. They have difficulty in the work place taking direction or working with younger superiors because they feel their age is the limitus test for leadership. Humility and putting ego aside is needed at times. We all have more to learn. You can get teach older guys and gals new tricks if they want to learn them.
Try to find a new job when you’re 62 or 63. Is that HR person wondering, “Do we put training into someone who won’t be here in 2 or 3 years?” The thing is, that 25 yr old will probably quit on you after 2 years also. Many people want to work well past age 65. Friends of mine in tech are being asked to continue working because they know the old computer languages.
I've worked in places where the older people act like since they're older, they know more. But it takes them longer to understand things. I was working in the media when we began to focus on more online/internet/social media and they couldn't grasp it why a breaking news story needed to be online lickety-split. And someone in their 50s or 60s doesn't like have a supervisor in their 30s or 40s and even 20s.
@@zanethomas6865 Do you know who invented all that tech that you so worship and who has kept up all the way until today? (I've been messing with computers in one way or another since learning the brand new cutting edge programming language COBOL, and I'm one of many.) And breaking news has ALWAYS needed to be out in the quickest fashion possible using whatever the current technology is (what do you think "special editions" of newspapers were for in those movies from the 1930's?).
And it is also entirely possible that some of those "older people" in places you worked DID know a lot more than you do - it would be hard not to by simply living longer - though of course there are bright and not so bright people who think they know more than others of EVERY age - including yours.
You appear to be a poster child for the problem that is covered in this segment.
@@brucekuehn4031 Try to find a new job when you're 55. I'm 74, I run a non-profit organization I founded, I'm experienced, intellectually curious, and although I don't have the physical vigor I had in my 30's, I can still kayak 10 miles, and hike the pants off of most men half my age. People tell me I look great "for my age". I love the retort cited in this interview: "You look good for your age too". Ageism is poisonous and we need a national conversation about it because like it or not, everyone is aging all the time. The only question is whether we want to continue to view old people through that destructive lens.
@@triciajumonville7741 Perfect! Loved that reply.
Agism almost killed me at age 48 by keeping me out of the job market & I looked like 28 & felt more energized than a 20 year old.
I remember experiencing not only ageism, but discrimination due to the excuses of being overqualified for many high paying jobs. Thankfully I had decided to retire early.
Isn’t that the truth - I out perform most of my younger cohorts. Tbh, they compliment me regularly & respect me. The respect part is all I ask.
Ageism is super prevalent in medical system. When started having nuromuscular disease at 58 one MD wasn't hot to seek diagnosis or treatment... at my age. Another MD when I started needing a cane pushed me to get a rollator so I don't have a fall... at my age. I am now 65 and this disease doesn't shorten life span if managed well which has become the fight of my life.
I was 53 when the WTC Towers came down - September 11, 2001. Back then I wanted to make a gesture to affirm my faith in our country, so I returned to college. I was 54. I attended Columbia University, thank you very much, majoring in Engl/Comp Lit.and keeping at 3.76 during my years there. I married for the first time at 60. Now in our second chapters here in New Orleans, hubby and I are still robust and active. My mother lived to be 95; Ric's mom passed at..98. Worth noting: I write, speak and spell better than most of my younger colleagues, having been given the benefits of a superlative education. And by the way, I am neither wealthy NOR an Ivy Leaguer. Moreover, now young people frequently come to me for advice, 'help in writing papers and stuff'. Seems my wisdom is valued and sought after. Is older age what we make it? Absolutely.
Hi Cynthia! I'm so sorry to leave this here, but I came across your channel on TH-cam and would love to get to know you better. I think you must be a very honest person because I always found your comments so respectful and well-said. If that's okay with you, I would love to be friends-but if it seems weird or uncomfortable in any way, please don't feel obligated to respond. Have a great day and keep sharing!
Love the "and stuff."
listen to Kevin Cosgrove's phone call in the twin towers here on TH-cam. he was too young to die he said. no one is guaranteed to live to a certain age and working your life away for the sake of work is foolish
There is another problem with this- older adults can't get jobs! Unless we create a "start-up" company on our own? I'm smart - but not of the mind to create a tech company. I got sick, had to "retire" (without much savings) at 49. 8 years later, I'm 100% physically, strong, healthy, still sharp, have a degree and a great resume. And all I can get is a job at a store, working the register or something. How do we get a new career when we know as soon as we show up for the interview, they are going to decide "nope" instantly? Older people are a risk to employ - no health insurance offering company wants a cost raiser in their ranks - God forbid we got sick! It's written - Don't Hire Over 50's. I need a job or I'll be homeless soon. I want to work!
In my area, Ohio capital, there is a site called Employment for Seniors. It lists places that will take on seniors. Maybe not to be CEO, but it does exist I used to browse it, but get to retire now, cause of a benefit THAT GOT APPROVED
This may sound unethical, but I say lie about your age! No one is going to dig up your birth year. Or you can just say a few things about "in my forties" as if that's now. Good luck! I am 58 and have faced the same.
I'm 74. I've been experiencing ageism since roughly my mid-50's. It's particularly prevalent and toxic in the job market, but it's woven so tightly into the fabric of our ageist culture that most people don't give it a second thought. Let's get personal. After a certain age, most men begin to notice that there isn't quite as much "lead in their pencil", to use a comedic phrase. OK. How does that play out in ageist culture? Here's a telling example. If you're retired and have Medicare, it will not pay for Viagra, Cialis or any other medication that is known to put "lead in your pencil". Why is that? It's simply a reflection of the pernicious ageist cultural image of "dirty old men". And who are they? Any "old men" who are interested in having sex. Medicare will happily pay a small fortune for antidepressant medications for old guys who are depressed about the situation, but won't pay a penny for ED meds. That's just one example that flies under most people's radar. You're welcome.
My uncle in his 80's asked the doctor for Viagra & the doctor laughed at him and was dismissive of the question. He was embarrassed and didn't follow through to get it.
And it’s MEDICARE and physicians that call the shots if you will be provided medical surgeries to extend your life. They prefer to provide pills to treat symptoms instead of treating the cause. Saw it happen to my own mother. A pacemaker would of resolved her problem instead it was pushing pills and blood work up for the last years of her life. Society needs to value the elderly but it’s all about $$$$$$$
@@kayalcorn9569 Wow, that's really messed up. I'm sorry for your uncle. I had a doctor laugh at me too.
Sad. Also fact if you are taking antidepressants, you certainly will have no mood for sex, not even if you are a young guy.
@@V.E.R.O. Not cool at all. You should report that. Doctors are in charge of your full health care. Sex should not be dismissed.
Give me a 78 year old with 40 years of high level government experience to guide a country through an extremely chaotic time in the world.
But we have to make the generational shift.
Honestly? No. No one that age should be in a position of power. If we have age limits for air traffic controllers, we should absolutely have them for the president and members of congress as well.
@@w1ngnutsRunning a country uses far different skills than flying a plane.
Age isn't the determining factor for capability. Each person ages differently.
I was discriminated against when I was 59, on my job, the Regional manager was giving my accounts away to a younger guy, and I am and I was VERY capable of doing my job, this has to STOP! I am just as smart as any 20-30 and have more experience, and more energy then anyone!
But they can pay him less; this is often the reality
@@katieking8830 we where commission sales reps, this International Company discriminated against woman all the time, they have been sued, not by me but others, I think they have learned this is against the law, and does not work well in Business
This is a signal to leave the company. That's sad but true. Fortunately you have connections, wisdom, and experience your younger co-workers don't have. Leverage these assets to find a better position. Don't fear change because now is the time to find a place that is in need of your experience.
I wish people that employ nurses would realize that just because you've aged, you still have the ability to care. I've been a nurse for 40 years, recently when I "retired" I took a part time job in a drug clinic that didn't require me to be up on my knees as much. Everything was fine until I came down with a mild case of facial shingles and was unable to work one of my part time times. I received a text informing me to turn in my badge and keys and I was fired. No other explanation or problems. Later found out it was agism. Notified the patent corporation and got no response, also tried AARP...again no response. AND the nursing Board. It was as clearly a case of discrimmination. I did not renew my license to nurse this year because I was so depressed. BTW I'm 72, live alone and still care for myself and others. Such a shame to be treated this way.
I am tired of being judged by how I look and my age- and have been treated as invisible - it’s definitely ageism . Inside I don’t feel old.
When I was 49, I was told in a job interview in the Buckhead area of Atlanta that my education wasn't recent enough.
Most of us have lots of current certifications and trainings to show potential employers. The older you get, the more of these you need to have. If you don't, then your skills are NOT up to date. At any age.
Discrimination is rampant!!
Age is in your mind set... You can be old at 25 ..or young at 75 ... You need to be aware of your life...& It's surrounding's......
Bravo I am standing and clapping my hands for her.
If you want someone who's going to do a good job, hire an older person. If you want someone who's going to show up and do the work and not be on their phone constantly, hiring older person. And by that I mean over 50.
My mother died at 50…she did not live long enough to get wrinkles. I’m 65 now…bring on the wrinkles
If the person is capable of doing their job doesnt matter what age they are! Im almost 28 and my boss is 74 shes a lawyer and is smarter than all of us combined!!
My father-in-law is 80 and one of the most vital people I know. This guy is incredible. He's an artist and a med tech innovator.
I've been in the hospitality industry for over 21 years. When my job cut my hours because of covid I started looking for a job to supplement my income I went on four interviews and I wasn't hired I had all this experience. I believe that being 61 years of age wasn't what they're looking for.
That’s age discrimination 200%
I'm sorry to hear that. I've been on dozens of interviews, and not gotten hired. Late 50's.
Meanwhile, republicans are wanting to raise the retirement age to 70. But very few companies want to hire 50 or 60-somethings.
They also want to change the minimum voting age back to 21.
Fortunately I'm going through the same thing no one wants to hire a 61 year old
You nailed it!!
They also want to end social security and medicare. But hey which age group votes for them the most?
@@a_troll_ I want to end them as well.SS stole 900 bucks from me in the 1960's and Medicare taxes took 14 K from me but I'm not eligible for either program.Besides,they're both Madoff schemes.
Meanwhile, asking one's age in Korea is common, but only used to determine the age specific honorifics when communicating (formal vs informal).
Sunday morning knows their target audience.
They both look radiant and great, regardless of their age. That in it's self is inspiring. When you throw in the stats, it's even more encouraging. There are many previously "young" people out there that burnt themselves out by the time they were 40 and are no longer with us either in body or in spirit.
I just turned 50 last month. My mantra for my second act is: Life is short. Pack Light. Do what is right for me, not what is expected of me. As I always have since birth it seems. Also my grandmother told me never to be embarrassed or regretful about your birthday and getting older. She said because there are a lot of people out there who no longer have that luxury.
My mom and dad are in their 70’s and you’d never know. They look like theyre in their late 40’s and are very active and busy. I think the baby boomer generation is changing what it means to “age.”
I believe that ageism goes both ways. I work in a hospital and the new doctors look like they are in high school!!
I refuse them. All my doctors are 50+ years old.
We should treat everyone as an individual and give everyone opportunities. However, we also need to face reality. I'm 55, a horse riding farm owner. I recently sold the business I founded and ran for 30 years. I'm active both in body and mind. Yet, I have way more aches and pains and less stamina than 20 years ago. That's true for the majority of people as we age. I will probably more likely fall off my bike at age 80 than I would now at 55. I'm going to keep striving and add value to the world. And also not be offended if someone points out the reality of my age.
Well said!
I appreciate your honesty. I was a gymnast and acrobat in my teens - I can't do that now at 65. I played piano better in my 20s and 30s than I do now. I played sports in my 20s-40s that I can't do any more. I can't even ride a bicycle any more because of degenerative disc disease. I can't eat cheesecake, fettuccine alfredo or most dairy because my body as changed. Your words - 'we also need to face reality' - ring true with me. I wish our politicians would heed your words and NOT remain in political life when they are in their 70s and 80s - it seems like their massive egos prevent them from accepting the reality that they are no longer in touch with the life's struggles of younger generations.
52 here. Still curious. Still traveling. Enjoying life. It’s difficult in workplace with people assuming you aren’t capable when in fact - we carry more wisdom, experience and education than most. To all my 50 -and over - stay active stay growing and never ever give up
We must remember that in the early 1900s average life expectancy was 48 for women 51 for men. Living longer means you must take care of yourself, physically, mentally, spiritually etc. Exercise and nutrition is of the most importance as well!!! And because we are living longer does not mean you should be discriminated against for being older. And not to be overlooked because we are living longer!!!
Someone told I looked good for my age and spoke very good English while driving a cab in NYC! I looked back at him and said so did he! he looked confused and cut the conversation 🤣.
We are living longer and better. I just turned 71 and feeling fine.
It’s so true!! People automatically equate age with ability. A person’s ability doesn’t automatically have to do other age. But I love what they said about the subtle perpetuation of agism; sending cards with agist messages etc. we all need to be mindful and change.
I'll be 78 in January. I can still ride my bike 100 miles a day. There is a ski jump in town with 409 steps next to it. I try to do them a couple of times a week with my dog. It really pisses me off when people hold the door open for me.
Thats awesome! My dad and my husband are in their 70’s and still super active. My dad rides his bike about 50 miles a week and loves it. Its all about attitude!
Great story! Bravo for bringing light to this very real mindset.
Hey Mermaid! Apologies for dropping this here I came across your TH-cam channel and I would love to know you better. I'm guessing you must be an honest person, because I always found your comments to be so nice and respectful. If it's okay with you, I'd love to be friend but if it sounds odd or embarrassing in any way please don't embarrass me by replying. Have a wonderful day, and keep sharing!
My problem is I'm turning 50 in three more years and still look 25. Neither of my parents looked their age but lived during a time you could work and retire from the same company. I look too young to be socially accepted and taken seriously by top leadership and too old to socialize with the much younger employees on a level that seems conducive to their expectations. I'm single as well and the dating scene is an absolute nightmare, I just don't fit in anywhere - anymore!...
As an Afghan colleague often stated, “Old is Gold”.
I just tried for a job training program at Boatworks 101 in Marin, CA. I flatout emailed and asked them if there was an age discrimination for the program. They replied no, that the program was open to everyone. I don't think they imagined how old I really was! When I came for the interview, they mentioned over ten times how hot, dirty and hard the work was and that they didn't think I could do it despite my resume of manual labor. The head interviewer was a young lady who was the most disparaging pointedly and angrily declared that I didn't fit the profile they were looking for. This recent interview was actually the most blatant discrimination I have encountered in my long career of being the first woman hire in manual labor male dominated roles. Pretty shocking that the discrimination is getting worse instead of better.
Honestly, I love my age. I’m now 44, with an almost 18 yr old. I’m on my “second life”. While I admittedly look pretty young for my age, which I’m told all the time. As I’m working on my graduate degree (degree number 3). I do wish I had gray like my partner. Lol. But we are active, settled into a comfy life with little debt. We enjoy learning, taking on new hobbies and traveling.
But I remember going back to school, I told my advisor I wanted to get my PhD and do research. He looked at me and said, “Well, you don’t have much time, looking at your age”. He also told me, I’d likely have a hard time getting into grad school and doing research. Mind you, he was older than me. Jokes on him though. I’m in grad school. Presented my work at work conferences. Been honored in my community for my work and about to publish more of my work 🤷🏽♀️. Age isn’t who we are. It’s just a number we have.
Time cannot be ignored. Sure if you have your mental and physical abilities that have not diminished then keep going but also learn when to accept the bad things and step down. We all will go through that unless we die early due to disease or accidents.
I'm in my late 60s and it's getting harder to stay cheerful and to ignore the aches and pains and find newness in the world around me. Things we cherished when younger like musicians, authors, TV and radio celebs, heck even nostalgia for older tech and the "good old days" are slowly dying off and that can be VERY depressing. I try to find new subjects to interest me and so far I think I'm doing okay.
I hate living in the past, old memories and wishing for those times. Honestly a lot of the past was crap and best forgotten. Trying to stay young can be helpful but also a trap thinking you can "beat this". Find peace with yourself and your situation. Try to help others instead of crawling into your shell. Accept that the future is coming for everyone no matter how much we kick and scream and cry..........Always look on the bright side of life *whistle*
Very good advice David. I'm in my late 50's and see what you're describing here everyday. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Why you didn't tell Trump that when he was acting like a little baby
Unless you don't have aches and pains to cope with - it is fine to age but when aging becomes painful due to my health - then it becomes intolerable.
I''m the same age as you and don't have any health issues, but do find it takes more time and effort to maintain my physical functionality. For example, I had to go to a podiatrist for a painful big toenail. One of her tips "soak you feet once a day in soapy water". OK, there goes 20 minutes to be added to the daily routine. Plus I'm adding yoga, since I'm noticing it's harder to bend down. Good thing I'm not expected to have a job anymore!
@@toneyingram732 Why did you have to bring up that person? Really?🤦🏽
Good, got charge on phone. As an only child caregiver, I'm on the wall about ageism. I dislike age discrimination, yet often feel my life is increasingly devoted to babysitting and doing everything for my wartime born folks, who either need 90 percent of their physical needs assisted or refuse to get onboard with new technology. What twits who simply advise get on with your life don't get is it is your responsibilty to be companion and keep composition of their personalities so they don't slide into dementia, a worse state of affairs. It teeters between a sitcom and Sartre's No Exit.
Whether too young or too old, someone else always has an opinion that shouldn't ~ it's a form of discrimination, shaming and oppression we should evolve past.
This is a needed conversation. So tired of ageism being the last 'allowed' bias and hate speech.
I’m in my early 80’s and I was at a store with my son who just turned 58. I was shocked when somebody came up to me (while my son was in the restroom) and said something like “I think the elderly man who was just with you stopped this” (his hat). Wow that was shocking to hear ‘elderly’
Also, if there was only one man with you, why did that person even describe him based on age at all? No need for process of elimination here.
Movie descriptions like “young man” or “young woman” or “middle age” are unnecessary the majority of the time. It’s hyper-focused on age for no good reason at all.
Good Morning! Love this segment! My goal was always to allow my kid's to grow up while I stay young at heart!
We women over 55 over 60 tend to become invisible. I'm 67. I hate it when somebody sees a younger photo of me and says "Wow, you were hot when you were young." I also hate " "He/she is STILL attractive."
So many of my cultural/intellectual heroes are ppl 70+ (I'm 65); an example is Sir David Attenborough, who at 96 is energetic, fully engaged with the world, still traveling and sharing his wisdom via documentaries. However, I'm not sure how I feel abt the possibility of a POTUS who'd be 82 at the start of a 2nd term, because of the tremendous demands of the office.
Interesting to note that Theresa Harrison's colleagues in the conference room 6:28 look like they all might be from a younger generation than Harrison. Hopefully Harrison is practicing what she preaches when it comes to her firm's hiring practices.
I am a Creative in my mid 60's .In my lifetime I have had a since ,College CCA, l have blown glass professionally for two years For the two best Hot glass Studios in the US . Illustrated and designed fabric for Leslie Fay Dresses For a couple of years before they relocated Manufacturing to Indonesia in 1995. .Worked a 34 year career as an Illustrator for newspapers, books and magazines. Worked as a Bench Jeweler for over 10 years professionally. Also while still doing Graphic Design. Designed Drafted and Illustrated Jewelry on Scholarship .G.I.A. Trained . Relocated to the Southwest. Designed and excuted Stained Glass for one Chapel in STL. And Seven Churches in and two Rectories in NM,Single handed. My kids are saying 'take it easy'....🙄that's three dirty words.
Eye roll. Even with all these creative skills. There is still Ageism.
So inspiring - thank you yet again for a wonderful story.
I'm in my mid-50s and I have become invisible. Maybe it will help to start thinking about it as my superpower!
I am a 53 year old female that returned to school and got my BFA in Graphic Design. Now, the fun begins! Finding someone to hire me because they like my work and are not concerned with my number of years. Such an ageist society we live in. We HAVE to work until we are at least 62, so ageism hurts ALL of us!
72, great health, studying for a History degree. Life is good!
She is accomplished, beautiful, intelligent and successful. My mom loved every age she reached. She taught me that every age is beautiful.
Eighty-eight year old male widower here. I still drive, cook for myself daily, do mental tasks like crosswords and cryptograms, receive and visit friends, shop for myself, and do whatever else I ned to do for my survival. Problems? Of course. Aches and pains are residents in my body. Additionally I have had prostate cancer and am now cancer free, recently had cataract surgery, have glaucoma, and also have diabetes. Do I face ageism? Yep. Those guilty in a way are to be pitied. They have population ignorance. I mostly ignore it but occasionally will remind someone of it and they are very apologetic. Such is life. Just a thought or two.
Thanks for this. I'm a thirty something with parents who passed in thier 60s. Currently I'm surrounded by 20 year olds in my field and it's lonely. All of it has been making me feel like I have less to look forward to. I'm trying to remember my best years could still be coming.
I am 76,
Never sat down and never quit learning.
I am 46 and people treat me like I am 200 years old. Wow! I never thought ageism would start so soon.
I am fighting ageism at 60. Whilst I just saw an article about Demi Moore about how great 60 is.
Gives me lots of hope and inspiration.
I recently lost my job because my boss, 10 years younger than me, believed someone my age could not understand the fashion market. Could not design for a consumer 30 yrs younger than me despite me proving over and over that I could. An older designer looked bad for his brand. I am a 58. I have had senior level positions for the best companies in the world. I have made a lot of money for the industry I have worked in and made high paid bosses like the one who just fired me pretty wealthy. Now I am facing little prospects of finding another job because unfortunately his opinion is shared by most people hiring my industry. I am coming to realise I have to turn my back on the career I have had for 30 years and do something more acceptable for my age. It is heart breaking because I have loved being a shoe designer and I’m damn good at it. I have so much to offer but I always knew I had a shelf life. The most common advice I get is “why don’t you teach?’. Because it seems teaching is one of the few jobs someone in their 50s/60s is allowed to do. This is a society not making the best of the resources we have because of preconceived notions of the value of someone over 50.
Thank you for this!
Thank you! I needed that :)
Thank you! Most excellent!
I loved this piece. ❤️
Ageism seems to be the only ism that is still ok to engage in. This woman is actually young to me - I’m 77 and I take no pharmaceuticals on a regular basis. I am an artist and. jeweler and still going strong. I am healthier and stronger than my own kid.
I grew up in the Caribbean and one of the most unfortunate things we do there is usher “old people” to sit down whenever they arrive somewhere. The going sensibility is that they’re weak and tired. I think that the seniors often behave in ways that make them seem that way. However, perhaps they act weak and tired because we treat them that way. Maybe, it’s a mind thing sometimes. That’s food for thought.
I agree, it absolutely is a mind thing.
Ageism and heightism the final acceptance that need to be addressed
Right on! All this ageism is so absurd and annoying!
I work in the produce section of Walmart with a gentleman who just turned 80. They cut his hours down severely because he takes so many breaks. He shows up on time and doesn't call out. He lifts 50 pound boxes and is a reliable stocker. DESPITE his penchant for taking multiple breaks, he out performs several of our co-workers whose breaks aren't that much shorter than his, by the way.
I speak from experience when I say that the ONLY 'acceptable' form of prejudice in Corp. America circa 2022 is ageism. Despite what the mendacious HR parrots tell you, everything in Corp. America hiring is geared towards minimizing costs, and the "geniuses" who design recruiting policies believe that hiring anyone over 50 (if not 45) presents too much of a 'risk' to higher medical costs, training & other tropes...totally disregarding the maturity, and EXPERIENCE that workers over 50 possess. Yet another reason why America's position in the business world continues to decline year over year...
Brilliant absolutely brilliant report!
I needed to see this.
When someone says:
“You Look great, for your age!”
Reply:
“You look good for your age too”
I have to remind myself ageism is the problem of the person making assumptions and being in fear of the same. Each day I awake is an opportunity to live until I die.