Report on Ageism and Elderspeak: Implications for Sustainable Development Goals

Introduction to Age-Inclusive Exercise Programs

An exercise class designed for individuals over 55 years old recently welcomed new participants, predominantly septuagenarian women. The program incorporated various equipment such as chairs, weights, bands, and balls, offering three levels of difficulty to accommodate different abilities. This inclusive approach aligns with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, promoting healthy lifestyles and well-being for all ages.

Intergenerational Participation and Inclusivity

The class included a younger participant in her fifties, who consistently chose the most challenging exercises. The program’s adaptability ensured accessibility for individuals with conditions such as arthritis, while still benefiting fitter participants. This reflects the principles of SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by fostering inclusive participation regardless of age or physical condition.

Encounter with Elderspeak and Its Effects

After the session, an interaction highlighted the use of the term “sweetheart” by a younger woman towards an older participant. Although intended kindly, this form of address evoked feelings of patronization and infantilization, reminiscent of language used in aged care settings. This phenomenon is identified as “elderspeak,” a form of benevolent ageism.

Understanding Elderspeak and Benevolent Ageism

• Term coined in 1986 by UK researchers Gillian Cohen and Dorothy Faulkner.
• Described by Dr. Marlene Krasovitsky as a manifestation of benevolent ageism.
• Characterized by patronizing language, inappropriate terms of endearment, juvenile speech, or exaggerated enunciation.
• Leads to diminished autonomy, devaluation, and reinforces stereotypes of older adults as frail or passive.

Addressing elderspeak is essential to uphold SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, which includes promoting inclusive societies and combating discrimination.

Examples and Personal Experiences of Ageism

1. Being called “young lady” by a taxi driver and subjected to unsolicited music choices from an earlier era.
2. Receiving compliments framed by age-related stereotypes such as “spry” or “good for my age.”

Such experiences contribute to self-directed ageism, where older individuals internalize negative stereotypes, undermining their confidence and well-being. Combatting this aligns with SDG 3 and SDG 10 by fostering mental health and reducing inequalities.

Recommendations for Addressing Elderspeak

• Encourage open communication: Older adults should feel empowered to request respectful language.
• Raise awareness: Educate communities and caregivers about the impact of benevolent ageism.
• Promote autonomy: Support older individuals in maintaining their voice and agency.

These measures contribute to SDG 4: Quality Education by promoting awareness and understanding of ageism, and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by fostering age-friendly environments.

Conclusion

While elderspeak often stems from kindness, its patronizing nature can negatively affect older adults’ dignity and autonomy. Addressing this issue is crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals related to health, equality, education, and inclusive societies. By fostering respectful communication and challenging ageist stereotypes, communities can support the well-being and active participation of older adults.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article discusses exercise for older adults, promoting physical health and well-being.
   • It addresses issues of autonomy and dignity in aging, which relate to mental and social well-being.
2. SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • The article touches on gender dynamics, especially in the context of language and social interactions.
   • It highlights how patronizing language can reflect and reinforce gendered stereotypes.
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • The article addresses ageism, a form of social inequality affecting older people.
   • It promotes respect and inclusion of older adults in society.
4. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • By advocating for respectful communication and autonomy, the article aligns with promoting inclusive societies and reducing discrimination.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified Based on the Article’s Content

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.4: Reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and promotion of mental health and well-being.
   • Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including access to quality essential health-care services.
2. SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • Target 5.1: End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere.
   • Target 5.5: Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels.
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age.
   • Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including eliminating discriminatory laws and practices.
4. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Target 16.b: Promote and enforce non-discriminatory laws and policies for sustainable development.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article to Measure Progress Towards the Identified Targets

1. Indicators related to SDG 3:
   • Prevalence of participation in physical activity programs among older adults.
   • Measures of mental health and well-being in older populations, including autonomy and social inclusion.
2. Indicators related to SDG 5:
   • Incidence of discriminatory or patronizing language based on gender and age in social and care settings.
   • Surveys measuring perceptions of respect and equality among older women.
3. Indicators related to SDG 10:
   • Prevalence of ageism and benevolent ageism (elderspeak) in community and care environments.
   • Levels of social inclusion and empowerment of older people.
4. Indicators related to SDG 16:
   • Existence and enforcement of policies addressing age discrimination and promoting respectful communication.
   • Reported cases or surveys on discrimination and social justice for older adults.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: theguardian.com