Wealth
Ageism is discrimination
By Lesa Macpherson
There has been recent press coverage about ageist behaviour in the workplace. The suggestion is that HR managers are seeing workers 50 plus as less employable and accordingly downgraded in any job application. It is said that under the influence of artificial intelligence, machines undertake a first cull of job applicants, and either place applicants above a certain age low on the list or eliminate them completely.
Sadly, this reflects a trend across the board of downgrading people over 50 in all manner of situations and circumstances.
Another common example is where shop assistants, receptionists, even professionals use terms like “love” and “dear” in a condescending way when dealing with seniors. So, what is ageism? What are the legalities around age discrimination and how effective are they?
- Ageism is stereotyping, discrimination and mistreatment of people solely on the basis of age. Ageism has a devastating impact on physical and mental health, longevity and employment prospects.
Recent alarming findings include:
- One in every three over 50s has had a job application rejected because of age or been made to feel they are too old to work if they want to.
- There needs to be real and practical legal clout for calling out ageism in the workplace. The Age Discrimination Act has been in place for many years, but to date has failed to be effective in driving a change in behaviours.
- Nearly half of all over-50s have been made to feel incompetent in learning and understanding new technology.
These are sad statistics. A huge government campaign is needed to address these issues at a community-based level. Perhaps we do need to heed the advice to update our CVs and increase our familiarity with Zoom and online platforms to enhance our employability.
Every one of us, regardless of our stage of life, wants to age well. Let’s end ageism and its negative aspects. Let’s see more cases of age discrimination treated with far greater seriousness.
Sunshine Coast & Brisbane Elder Law are experts in all aspects of the law in relation to Elder people. Contact them on 1800 961 622 or visit sunshinecoastelderlaw.com.au or brisbaneelderlaw.com.au
