A concept analysis of ageism from older adults’ perspective: a hybrid model

Abstract

Introduction: Iran follows global trends with a growing aging population. To better understand ageism in Iranian context, the present study explores the concept using a hybrid model with both inductive and deductive approaches. Methods: A hybrid concept analysis model was used to further define the concept of ageism. In the first step, databases such as PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Science Direct, and Google Scholar were searched for studies up until August 2019. Key terms used in the search included “ageism”, “stereotype”, “discrimination”, “age”, “aging” “old”, and “elder”. Subsequently, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 community-dwelling older adults chosen through purposive sampling. Results: Data from the theoretical and fieldwork phases presented a definition of ageism: “Ageism engrained into older adults (no other age groups) is associated with personal, psycho-social, economic, and especially cultural factors that impose an acceptance of limitations based on chronological age or being perceived as old”. Conclusion: Ageism is a multi-faceted experience composed of psycho-social, economic, and cultural dimensions. While the present study has further clarified ageism, more research is needed, particularly in relation to diverse cultural contexts.