Ageism is defined as prejudice against older people. It's pretty widespread, in its various forms. Ageism implies that as soon as a person can be described as old they are automatically considered:

• Of little value
• A burden on society
• Slow to accept change
• Unable to look after themselves
• Slow, deaf or stupid
• Child-like or sweet

This can lead to a vicious circle of dependence, along the following lines :

We can all combat this negative spiral, which drives the older person into total dependence, if we:

• Realize that older people are part of the cycle of life, and that they should not be 'compartmentalized'
• Ensure that health promotional efforts focus on healthy aging
• Give importance to the settings in which individuals age - these help determine their health status in old age
• Recognize gender differences in both health and ways of living
• Emphasize strategies that maintain bonding between generations