When ageism is excluding ourselves

Ageism can present in many different forms, from discrimination in job interviews and invisibility in clothing stores to assumptions about older people’s digital skills.

It can also affect us internally. If you’ve ever said, “I’m too old for this”, is it a true statement or is it simply internalised ageism at work?

In 2024, a National Seniors Social Survey asked respondents if there were any activities that they would like to try but had chosen not to because they were self-conscious about their age.

In total, 2,600 people answered the question with about a third (839) saying that they had excluded themselves from some activities for this or a similar reason.