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We’re All Ageist
“Ageism refers to the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age.” World Health Organization
Our friends Ana and Pedro came over the other night to toast their purchase of a new home. They were really excited about the renovations they’re planning, the shrubs they’ll plant, the generator they’ll install, and so on.
“Well, the little old lady next door has a generator,” said Ana. “ And she said she wouldn’t mind if the contractors park on that space along her driveway .”
“Yeah, the little old lady’s so excited we’re moving in,” she went on.
“Hold on a minute, Ana,” Pedro interrupted. “That little old lady’s the same age you are.”
“But I don’t look her age!” Ana shot back.
Well, I’ve never met the little old lady and can’t really say for sure. What I can say is Ana, who’s 60, looks, dresses, and acts youthful.
I must also clarify we were speaking Spanish and “la viejita” doesn’t sound nearly as disrespectful and ageist as “the little old lady” does to me, a non-native speaker of English.
