Researchers: Liat Ayalon¹, Ella Cohn-Schwartz²

Background: Ageism is defined by the World Health Organization as thoughts, feelings and behaviors about age and aging. The emphasis in this research project is on its negative consequences for older adults.

Objectives: To conduct an extensive survey on the exposure of the older population to ageism in the healthcare system and on negative self-perceptions of aging. We will also examine how ageism is linked to health behaviors and to the utilization of healthcare services. Working hypotheses: As they age, older adults will report a higher exposure to ageism from the healthcare system and more negative self-perceptions of aging. Both perceptions of ageism from the healthcare system and from the self will be directly related to health behaviors and to utilization of health services.

Method: We conducted a national representative survey of adults aged 50 and above, stratified by age, gender, population group (Veteran Jew, Arab-Israeli, immigrants from the former Soviet Union) and geographical area. Bivariate and multivariate associations to understand the extent of the phenomenon and its effects on older adults’ health and health behaviors.

Findings: Perceived ageism was directly associated with health outcomes. This was partially mediated by health behaviors.

Conclusions: : Our findings point to the unique aspects associated with perceived age discrimination, which potentially make older people more susceptible to its negative effects.

Recommendations: Ageism has negative consequences for individuals and for the whole system Greater awareness of its negative impact can possibly improve health outcomes.

Research end date: 12/2021