Work

Influence of Perceived Ageism on Older Adults: Focus on Attitudes toward Young People and Life Satisfaction

Year: 2022

Type: article

Abstract: The world’s population is aging, and intergenerational conflicts between older adults and young people are becoming more serious. This study focused on ageism as a cause of intergenerational conflicts and older adults’ diminished mental health status. We conducted an online survey of older Japanese participants (n = 1.096). Our results indicated that older adults who perceived more ageism directed toward them (1) had more negative attitudes toward young people and (2) had lower life satisfaction, which persisted even after controlling for variables such as old age identity and depressive tendencies. Accordingly, we suggest that ageism may reinforce intergenerational conflicts between older adults and young people and compromise older adults’ mental health status. The findings of this study can aid gerontological and psychological research aimed at reducing ageism.

Source: Advances in Gerontology

DOI: 10.1134/s2079057022040142

Authors: Y. Shimizu, M. Suzuki, Y. Hata, T. Sakaki

Institutions: Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, The University of Tokyo

Language: English

Topic: Aging and Gerontology Research

Subfield: Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: University of Tokyo, Japan Society for the Promotion of Science