"Go home, old man!" Ageism in the covid-19 pandemic: netnography on the Youtube™ platform

Abstract

Abstract Objective To analyze the repercussions of ageism directed at older people during covid-19, through the content available on the Youtube™ platform. Method Netnographic, exploratory and qualitative study, whose data were collected in videos on the Youtube™ platform; a thematic analysis of Bardin's content was performed and the elements were discussed in the light of the Theory of Stigma. Results Three categories explain the repercussions of the investigated phenomenon: expressions of ageism pre-existing to the pandemic, with expressions of exclusion, disregard and disrespect; expressions of ageism during the pandemic from the risk group label that strengthens stereotypes of sick and incapable people; and feelings and attitudes of the older people towards the repercussions of ageism, which led to repercussions on social interactions, lifestyle and health of older people. Conclusions The repercussions can cause physical, cognitive, social and psychic sequelae, and the fight against its impacts starts from the educational sphere towards a social pact that allows a respectful and empathetic coexistence between generations.