What are the consequences of ageism?

A. The failure of older adults to receive necessary medical information: Ageism often leads healthcare providers to underestimate older adults’ ability to understand or participate in decisions. As a result, important medical information may be withheld, limiting their autonomy and negatively affecting care outcomes. B. The development of public policy that favors programs for older adults: Ageism does not usually promote favorable policies. Instead, it often results in fewer resources or limited prioritization of older adults’ needs compared to younger populations. C. The perception that older adults have better medical treatment options: Ageism is more likely to create barriers to care rather than improve access. Older adults are often stereotyped as less deserving of aggressive or advanced treatments, reducing their options. D. The perception that older adults consume a small share of medical resources: The opposite perception is more common. Older adults are often viewed as using a disproportionate amount of healthcare resources, which can fuel ageist attitudes and discriminatory practices.