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. 2011 Dec;8(4):291-299.
doi: 10.1007/s10433-011-0206-4. Epub 2011 Nov 23.

Experienced discrimination amongst European old citizens

Wim J A van den Heuvel, Marc M van Santvoort

Experienced discrimination amongst European old citizens

Wim J A van den Heuvel et al. Eur J Ageing. 2011 Dec.

Abstract

This study analyses the experienced age discrimination of old European citizens and the factors related to this discrimination. Differences in experienced discrimination between old citizens of different European countries are explored. Data from the 2008 ESS survey are used. Old age is defined as being 62 years or older. The survey data come from 28 European countries and 14,364 old-age citizens. Their average age is 72 years. Factor analysis is used to construct the core variable 'experienced discrimination'. The influence of the independent variables on experienced discrimination is analysed using linear regression analysis. About one-quarter of old European citizens sometimes or frequently experience discrimination because of their age. Gender, education, income and belonging to a minority are related to experienced age discrimination. Satisfaction with life and subjective health are strongly associated with experienced age discrimination, as is trust in other people and the seriousness of age discrimination in the country. Large, significant differences in experienced discrimination due to old age exist between European countries. A north-west versus south-east European gradient is found in experienced discrimination due to old age. The socio-cultural context is important in explaining experienced age discrimination in old European citizens. Old-age discrimination is experienced less frequently in countries with social security arrangements. Further research is needed to understand the variation in (old) age discrimination between European countries. Measures recommended include increasing public awareness about the value of ageing for communities and changing public attitudes towards the old in a positive way.

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Figures

Graph 1
Graph 1
Average score on experienced old-age discrimination (score 1 = never; 4 = frequent) amongst old European citizens
Graph 2
Graph 2
Percentage of people 62 years or older who frequently experience discrimination because of age, by country
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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