Growing concern over ageism in Northern Ireland

Nearly 50 percent of people in Northern Ireland believe ageism is a significant problem within our society – according to new research by the University of Ulster.

Professor Eileen Evason, Emeritus Professor at UU, who led the Northern Ireland Life and Times study into Ageism, found that 48% of those questioned believe older people are treated worse than the general population, highlighting a widespread concern that people are increasingly discriminated against as they get older.

Professor Evason also revealed that 18% of people interviewed said that a friend or relative had not been offered medical treatment that might have helped them - because of their age.

About one in ten people interviewed said they had a friend or relative who had experienced employment related age discrimination.

The research, funded by Atlantic Philanthropies, found that people aged 50-59 had particularly strong views and concerns.

“This age group is increasingly under pressure in Northern Ireland. They are feeling the strain of caring for elderly parents as well as their own children but must stay in work themselves to provide for their own retirement,” said Professor Evason

In the 2003 Life and Times Survey on Ageism in Northern Ireland, people in this 50-59 age group believed:

·Older people are treated worse than the general population because of their age (57%)

·Authorities in Northern Ireland do not do enough for older people (77%)

·72% felt that people in their 50s and 60s who were seeking work were treated worse than younger people by prospective employers

·11% of men in this age group reported that they themselves had experienced age discrimination in the workplace, citing examples of redundancy, being passed over for promotion and being forced into early retirement [this refers to 40-49 yr olds]

·51% felt that people in their 50s and up to retirement age were treated less favourably by the financial sector because of their age with many experiencing difficulties securing loans or insurance

·71% of all age groups who took part in the survey felt that there should be laws making it illegal to refuse someone access to goods and services because they are older.

Ken Logue, of Atlantic Philanthropies said: “This survey shows us that many in our ageing population feel that they are not getting a good deal from employers, services or government. 50-59 year-olds are particularly feeling the squeeze - society expects a lot from them as carers, parents and earners, but they don’t feel that they are getting the support they need. Atlantic Philanthropies’ Programme on Ageing is supporting research, advocacy and projects aimed at improving the quality of life for older people. This survey will help us identify the areas of greatest need in Northern Ireland.”