Effects of workplace ageism on negative perception of aging and subjective well‐being of older adults according to gender and employment status

Abstract

AimAccording to stereotype embodiment theory, workplace ageism can worsen older adults' self‐perceptions of aging and subjective well‐being. However, there has been little research on gender differences in this regard. This study examined the effects of workplace ageism on attitudes toward aging and subjective well‐being according to gender and employment status.MethodsWe carried out an online survey of 600 participants aged 60–74 years in October 2021. Participants were equally divided into women who had worked full‐time, women who had worked part‐time and men who had worked full‐time, and further divided by current employment status, forming a total of six groups for comparison.ResultsA total of 75% of the participants perceived some form of workplace ageism. Structural equation modeling showed that, for men and women in full‐time employment, workplace ageism was associated with a negative self‐perception of aging and poor subjective well‐being, the effect of which was strong among those currently employed and weak among those who had retired. For women working part‐time, the impact of workplace ageism on subjective well‐being was stronger among those who were currently unemployed.ConclusionWorkplace ageism exacerbates older adults' self‐perception of aging and decreases their subjective well‐being. Women working part‐time might quit their jobs when their subjective well‐being worsens due to workplace ageism. Therefore, it is necessary to create a workplace environment that is comfortable for older workers and free of ageism. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 259–265.