Ageism is one of the most significant social challenges affecting older people’s rights. Ageism in healthcare is a widespread issue with negative health repercussions for elderly individuals (Nemiroff, 2022). While accessing services from numerous amenities, senior citizens are usually treated with contempt and prejudice. Ageism takes many forms, ranging from “micro” interpersonal issues like paternalistic conduct to “macro” institutional obstacles like barriers to timely and adequate assistance (Nemiroff, 2022, p. 118). Overall, numerous outdated stereotypes about elderly persons emerge, contributing to isolation and discrimination in various settings.
Another social issue that affects the rights of older individuals is financial insecurity, primarily due to low socioeconomic status or inability to work. Surprisingly, life expectancy has increased, but the labor market and retirement have not kept pace. Many elderly individuals are capable and motivated to work outside the norm, but their opportunities are limited. Furthermore, older generations may find it harder to keep track of their money and save for retirement because so much is now done online or digitally. They could also be more prone to anxiety and other mental health issues. Depression and numerous indications of financial stress, such as debt, economic difficulties, or challenges, are linked in some studies (Guan et al., 2022). According to Guan et al. (2022), stressful life situations are more likely to affect people or households with insufficient monetary capacity. Regrettably, the problem has been aggravated even within the healthcare system because some coverages require paying premiums that older people may not afford.
Ageism can be overcome by coming up with innovative ways to integrate older people into society through social activities. According to Nemiroff (2022), combating ageism and providing ethical healthcare requires intergenerational training and strong leadership from organizations to achieve policy and practice reforms. In the fight against ageism in healthcare, more expert education in the specific aspects of diagnosing and treating older adults would help (Inouye, 2021). In general, policymakers and care providers can help people maintain their sense of self-esteem and dignity. Still, they can also gain access to the information and skills vital for society’s advancement. When complete autonomy is no longer attainable, many older people require significant assistance. However, this may be unreasonably expensive or inaccessible for specific individuals. Therefore, financial instability can be addressed by keeping the elderly working far into retirement and establishing affordable healthcare coverages.
Nurses can make a difference in this scenario by participating in the Connecticut Nurses Association’s (CTNA) multiple committees. Most nurses are not familiar with the common appearances of various illnesses in the elderly (Inouye, 2021). Hence, participation in the CTNA might help them better understand age-related prejudice and its repercussions. Caregivers who influence policymaking in such boards help shape the treatment provided today and in the future. The initiatives will also have a bearing on how resources are allocated to improve healthcare delivery to the elderly. Moreover, it may provide caregivers with the essential skills and knowledge of regional or statewide standards for delivering high-quality care. Collaboration among nursing leaders in Connecticut is one example of professional cooperation to address social challenges. In essence, this is founded on a notion that values all individuals holistically and tries to support their health, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. Overall, if nursing personnel are to have an impact, they must think of themselves as experts with the potential and responsibility to influence current and developing healthcare delivery systems.
References
Guan, N., Guariglia, A., Moore, P., Xu, F., & Al-Janabi, H. (2022). Financial stress and depression in adults: A systematic review. PLOS ONE, 17(2), 1-20. Web.
Inouye, S. K. (2021). Creating an anti-ageist healthcare system to improve care for our current and future selves. Nature Aging, 1(2), 150-152. Web.
Nemiroff, L. (2022). We can do better: Addressing ageism against older adults in healthcare. Healthcare Management Forum, 35(2), 118-122. Web.