Is ‘OK Boomer’ an example of casual ageism? If yes, what other examples are there?
The slogan “OK boomer” is an internet meme used among teens and adults to belittle or ridicule views of those born in the two decades after WWII. Here are some other examples of ageist language and attitude that we may not even notice:
• Telling a lady, she’s “too old” to put on specific clothes or outfits (especially “sexy” ones).
• Products and services marketed as “anti-ageing.”
• Complimenting the seniors by comparing them to the youths: Are you that old? I thought you were ten years younger?
• Trying to remind someone that they are “too old” to do something or expressing amazement that they “still” skydive or do other activities.
• Calling those minor mental confusions as “senior moment.”
• Making comments about a senior to a younger companion or the children of the elderly.
• Mistreating seniors by undertreating, overtreating, or overmedicating them. (Healthcare and social-service providers.) . Using patronizing language such as sweetie, darling, honey, etc.
• Thinking that minor swearing, talking about sex and many other things done by seniors are more funny and unexpected than youngsters. (Discriminating)
• Name-calling: Words like gramps, old fart, dirty old guy, old hag, biddy, and old fogey are all considered insults. . Lying about your age to avoid awkward impressions.
• Thinking that young people are computer experts and seniors are technologically illiterate.
• Talking about the “Silver Tsunami theory.” This theory wrongfully implies that seniors are responsible for the country’s economic problems.