Social Psychology & Gerontology: integrating theory to explain and intervene in age discrimination towards older people in Europe

Today, age discrimination is one of the most fundamental forms of discrimination

endured by Europeans. In an ageing society this carries important consequences for the

overall health and well-being of European citizens. This chapter discusses how

integrating Social Psychology with Gerontology theorizing may contribute to the design

of proper research and interventions dealing with this pressing social issue. To illustrate

our discussion we present two case studies based on our findings from the “Experiences

and expressions of ageism” module of the European Social Survey. Case 1 shows how the

perception of age discrimination by older people mediates and helps to explain the

effects of wealth inequality on older people’s subjective health. Case 2 presents

compelling evidence showing that, among older people, identifying with being an older

person is associated with poor health outcomes, especially in countries where older

people’s status is lower. These findings are discussed in light of their implications for

theory and practical intervention in this domain.