The Nurses Role in Changing Stereotypes and Myths in Society

Ageism and Aging Myths Introduction Robert Butler first described ageism as a term in gerontology in 1969. He described it as discrimination or disparity similar to other forms of bigotry such as racial and sexual discrimination. He defined it as a process of mythical stereotyping against people because they are old while discriminating them on this basis. Today, ageism is broadly described as any form of prejudice, stereotyping, or discrimination against or in favor of a particular age group. Ageism refers to the beliefs, attitudes, ways of behaving and the feelings that people have towards the senior citizens or the elderly (Depp Jeste, 2006).