Working With Older Adults May Be Making You More Ageist

In this episode, Dr. Christina Prevett discusses the impact of ageism in healthcare, especially when working with older adults. She explores how healthcare providers' perceptions influence patient care and highlights real-world examples of systemic issues and biases. 00:00 Introduction and birthday reflection 00:29 Study on ageism among healthcare providers 00:59 How working with older adults influences perceptions 01:28 Impact of ageism on healthcare system 02:27 Vulnerable moments in older adult care 03:19 Heterogeneity of aging trajectories 04:15 Selection bias in patient populations 05:12 Traveling older adults and healthcare representation 05:40 Case example: Masters athletes and pickleball 07:06 Unintentional skewing of perceptions 08:02 Consequences of ageism in healthcare 08:29 Dismissal of symptoms and misdiagnosis 09:27 Mental health and aging stereotypes 10:51 Patronizing communication and elder speak 12:16 Under-treatment and rationing of care 13:09 Preventative care and health promotion 14:32 Systemic issues and healthcare incentives 16:03 Case study: 75-year-old with fecal impaction 17:23 Fragmented care and systemic neglect 18:49 Systemic bias and patient neglect 20:27Closing remarks and reflection on practice