Analyzed the content of five basal reading series published in the 1960s and 1980s to see if the manner in which the elderly are protrayed has changed. Indicated that although the elderly were underrepresented in the books in comparison to their actual proportion in the population, they were generally portrayed as competent, helpful, positive…

Discusses and debunks myths and stereotypes about older workers including their reaction to change and their ability to communicate. (JOW)

Examined role of misperceptions in a Congressional debate about policies for the aging. Found that misperceptions about the elderly, in the guise of compassionate stereotypes, were frequently expressed. Legislators voicing such stereotypes were the most likely to speak and vote against proposals to reduce Social Security benefits. Found some…

Identifies and briefly discusses three aspects of the problem of ageism: (1) prejudicial attitudes; (2) discriminatory practices against the elderly; (3) institutional practices and policies that perpetuate stereotypic beliefs about the elderly and undermine their personal dignity. (Author/GC)

Using a Q sort, 39 older adults rated 40 magazine ads. They found offensive ads that stereotyped elders as out of touch, ridiculous, difficult, and unattractive. Stereotypes of real aging problems were deemed nonoffensive. In interviews, they expressed concerns about the harm such stereotypes can do. (Contains 37 references.) (SK)

Discusses various institutional obstacles faced by older persons who want to work. Includes information on the impact of Social Security regulations and pension policies on work activity, the market for part-time jobs, and age discrimination. (JOW)

Dispels several myths about older workers: (1) they cost more; (2) they are sick more; (3) they cannot learn new skills; and (4) they are less productive. Suggests that employers and younger employees need to be sensitized to regard older workers an asset. (JOW)

Briefly discusses the concept of ageism, the stereotyping of groups of people on the basis of age, and lists resources including books, articles and organizations which can be used to combat ageism. (BR)

Presents highlights of the Labor Department's study on raising the mandatory retirement age. Discusses the Age Discrimination Employment Act (ADEA) and its short-run and long-run impacts, employees' knowledge of ADEA, and the relationship between mandatory retirement rules and pension plans. (Author/CT)

Contends that strong images of older people in today's books can help students better understand the process of aging. Discusses the novels "The Lilith Summer,""Queen of Hearts,""The Pigman," and "All Together Now." (FL)

Situates geragogy, the practice of teaching older adults, within critical gerontology. Explains principles of geragogy: embodiment of political rationale, commitment to transformation of ageism, refutation of myths of empowerment through education, outreach to all segments of the older population, emphasis on self-help culture, and engagement in…

Using the concepts of social solidarity and social dignity, proposes the establishment of a legally recognized status conferring a range of socioeconomic rights to senior citizens, nondiscrimination on the basis of age, greater flexibility in pension and retirement systems, and organized representation modeled on trade unionism and collective…

This report of a congressional hearing focuses on the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), which permits forced retirement of American workers solely on the basis of age, that is, mandatory retirement at age 70. Testimony includes statements and prepared statements from a United States Representative, individuals who have been forced to…

Drawing from recent research, this paper attempts to refute some of the commonly held assumptions about the inevitable decline of intellect as part of the aging process and point to ways educators can expand educational opportunities for older adults. After exploring some of the myths and stereotypes about senile, disoriented, helpless, rigid,…

Society has stereotyped the elderly as those who are unable, dependent, institutionalized, and handicapped in various other ways. Stereotyping older people in this manner allows them to be cast aside in the market as well. The marketing community should concentrate more on this thriving aggregate, for they have disposable income--some for the…