What are the negative effects of ageism?

Ageism has many adverse effects such as stress, depression, a higher risk of heart disease, feeling like a burden to others, an increased risk of isolation, low self-esteem, all of which can lead to withdrawal and physical decline. Scientists have linked Alzheimer-related brain changes to negative beliefs about ageing by proving an increased number of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles present in the brain of people who have more negative thoughts surrounding ageing. The stereotypes surrounding this subject can be more than just hurtful to older people, as individuals with more negative self-perceptions of ageing experience a decreased lifespan.