What is Gendered Ageism?

By Kaylee Chou

We hear it all the time, whether it’s at work, school or the news; diversity, inclusion and equity always seem to be the hot topic. These three things have the power to change the way our world operates by creating a healthier, friendlier and happier place for all. However, as we strive to achieve this, there are still many problems that stand in the way. One of which is gendered ageism.

Breaking it down, as defined by Merriam-Webster, ageism is “prejudice or discrimination against a particulr age-group, especially the eldery.” So, putting it together, according to Catalyst, gendered ageism is “differences in ageism faced by men and women.”

In an article done by Better Workplaces Better World, women are more subjected to the effects of gendered ageism.

A huge reason for this is because of societal beauty standards. Societal beauty standards are expectations set as to what society perceives as attractive. This could include race, ethnicity, body shape, and height. These standards can shift due to trends seen in the media, but are rooted in capitalism, patriarchy, colonialism, and white supremacy. Having this set standard is detrimental, with studies proving that they cause an increase in anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, and eating disorders. Both men and women are subjected to the effects of beauty standards. However, women face more likelihood when it comes to developing a negative body image. Women are more pressured to meet societal and cultural beauty standards, and their image often can equate them to their value. Many women feel a need to meet these expectations as following them can lead to better treatment, pay and career opportunities.

This is where gendered ageism comes in. With aging, the body naturally develops features such as gray hairs or wrinkles. This clearly goes against the beauty standard, and makes them seem less valuable in the workplace. They can be pushed out to make room for younger hires, or despite all their hard work, will never receive a promotion or raise.

A study done by Catherine Lindner and Bonnie Marcus surveyed 729 participants aged 18-70+, with 65% from America, and the rest from Canada, the UK and Europe. It found that gendered ageism is experienced by all women, regardless of what position they are at in their career, but it’s most likely to affect those under 35 and over 50.

Though men are subject to experience this as well, women receive this treatment earlier.

An article done on gendered ageism by Catalyst explained how on top of older women facing difficulties from beauty standards, older workers being viewed as less creative, flexible and less qualified also contribute.

In an analysis done by the Yale School of Public Health on the health effects of ageism, it was found that it could lead to mental health issues such as, depression and physical health issues such as, shorter life expectancy. To note, this analysis was reviewed from 422 international studies, with 45 countries across 5 continents, totaling 7 million people.

As the world continues to evolve and businesses strive to become more inclusive, it’s important to keep in mind the issues still facing those in the workplace.

While anyone can be a victim of ageism, women are subjected to it much earlier, with societal beauty standards continuing to play a major role in their treatment.