Negative attitudes about ageing are bad for health

A recent press release from the World Health Organization reports that discrimination and negative attitudes about ageing are bad for the health of society.  More than 83,000 people in 57 countries took part in a survey which assessed attitudes to older people across all age groups.  The lowest levels of respect were reported in the countries with the highest incomes.

The WHO report that negative attitudes about ageing and older people have consequences for older people in society.  Older people, the survey found, who feel they are a burden think their lives are less valuable often feel lonely, depressed and isolated.  The WHO concludes that it is time to take a stand against ageism and the detrimental impact it has on society.