Ageism, Ableism & Stigma

AGEISM is prejudice against someone due to their age. It affects both the young and the old.

ABLEISM is prejudice against someone based on their abilities, including someone’s physical, developmental, psychological or cognitive capabilities.

STIGMA is an attribute, behavior, or reputation which is socially discrediting in a particular way; it causes an individual to be mentally classified by others in an undesirable, rejected stereotype rather than in an accepted, normal one.
Ageism and Ableism are so entrenched in our culture that Elders can even become prejudiced against themselves because of the negative messages they are bombarded with all of the time.

This low self-worth can lead to isolation, loneliness, and a loss of purpose.

Because of this, the individual gifts that Elders have to share are often untapped or not valued.

Elders may not feel connected to others and may not be recognized for what they have to offer, making them feel helpless and bored. (The Eden Alternative)

As a first step in addressing these three issues, we must acknowledge our individual attitudes and beliefs about aging.

We all have to work together to stop AGEISM, ABLEISM, and STIGMA.

They cause us to “judge” people and they cause people to judge themselves.

How can you change YOUR thoughts and challenge Ageism, Ableism, and Stigma?

Please share this information with people you know.