How does ageism impact the identity formation of older adults in society?

Ageism, which is the discrimination against older people, can significantly affect how older adults see themselves and their place in society. When society views aging negatively, it can lead older adults to feel undervalued or invisible, which can harm their self-esteem and sense of identity. For example, if an older person is often told they are too old to learn new things, they might start believing they are incapable, leading them to stop trying new activities or pursuing interests. This can create a cycle where ageism reinforces their feelings of worthlessness and limits their personal growth. Ultimately, when older adults face ageism, it can prevent them from fully embracing who they are and all they can contribute to the world.