Social Inequality in relation to age

Understanding Age-Based Inequalities

Definition of age-based inequality: Age-based inequality refers to differential opportunities and social experiences that individuals have at different stages of their life due to their age.
The life course perspective: This sociological theory argues that ageing and life stages are social constructs, and that the social, economic, and cultural factors experienced throughout life affect individuals’ opportunities and outcomes.
Ageism: This is a systemic form of discrimination and prejudice against individuals based on their age. This can manifest in many forms, from being refused employment due to age to assumptions about competence or health based on age.

Education and age: Access to and quality of education can vary significantly with age. Early education experiences can impact later life chances, while adults often face barriers returning to education due to financial and time constraints.
Employment and age: Age discrimination in the workplace often impacts both the youngest and oldest workers, from younger workers being perceived as inexperienced to older workers being seen as less adaptable or competent.
Income and age: Earning capability often varies with life stages, where younger people typically earn less than their middle-aged counterparts, which in turn affects their wealth accumulation.
Health and age: Age is a significant factor in health outcomes, with older individuals often facing more health problems. Access to healthcare may also differ by age.
Social participation and age: Age can impact social inclusion. This is especially prominent for older people, who may face societal marginalisation.

The ‘youth’ and ‘age’ dichotomy: Society often constructs youth and age as opposing concepts and potentially marginalises those considered too young or old to participate fully in society.
The structural lag perspective: This theory suggests that societal structures and attitudes can lag behind changes in life expectancy and older people’s potentials, leading to inequality.
Pension and retirement age: Debate over pension rights and a shifting retirement age can reinforce age-based inequality. Earlier retirement ages can lead to longer periods of dependency while later retirement ages may impose barriers to younger generations entering the job market.
Influence of government policies: Policies regarding areas such as social security, healthcare, and welfare can have differential impacts on different age groups, potentially exacerbating or mitigating age-based inequalities.