What is a primary reason that societies may view aging negatively, leading to social policies that disadvantage older adults?

A primary reason societies may view aging negatively is the belief that older adults are less capable or less productive than younger people. This perception can lead to stereotypes that suggest older individuals cannot contribute to society in meaningful ways, which may influence how they are treated in the workplace and in social settings. For example, if a company prefers to hire younger workers because they believe older workers may not adapt to new technologies, this can create unfair disadvantages for older adults seeking jobs. Such attitudes can result in social policies that limit access to employment, healthcare, and other resources, making life more challenging for older individuals. Ultimately, these negative views overlook the valuable experiences and knowledge that older adults bring to society.