ion and hearing, frequently declines with age.6 A large number of older individuals are confined to beds in hospitals, nursing homes, or in their own residences. Nevertheless, most senior citizens describe themselves as having good health. Whereas most people experience some reduction in their powers and in their overall health, a serious decline in functioning is not an inevitable result of aging.7
"Ageism" creates difficulties for older people living in a society that worships youth. It is common for younger persons to fear the elderly, perhaps because they know that they, too, are aging. It is typical for young persons to characterize the elderly in negative ways.8 The prejudice that comes with growing old, moreover, is simply compounded with other forms of prejudice for older members of ethnic minorities.9 Prejudice is a problem, but as the number of older people grows, negative attitudes toward old age can be expected to erode slowly. Legislators, for example, already know the costs of ignoring the demands and requirements of the el
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