Ageism

Abstract

Young and older people often experience a range of similar concerns in twenty-first century Australia. Despite being at opposite ends of the age spectrum, they can be subject to stereotyping, experiences of discrimination and barriers to affordable housing and employment. Another shared challenge is an over-representation of mental health issues and risk of suicide. This chapter explores these two age groups who make up a significant portion of the Australian population. Fear of ageing and the flow-on effect to wellbeing is critically examined, and the mental health and wellbeing of young people in Australia explored. Reflections on the meaning of spirituality in later years, personal stories of ageism shared by younger and older adults alike, and the role of volunteering and activism as meaningful activities for young people highlight the lived experience of being young or old in Australia. Experiential activities that encourage the learner to test and challenge societal stereotypes, their own perceptions and gain a greater understanding of environmental, social and institutional barriers faced by people at different stages in the life cycle conclude this chapter.