Recovering From Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): Resisting Ageism and Recommitting to a Productive Aging Perspective

In a section of the New York Times written for children in regards to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there were comments from children who were missing out on important events: bar mitzvahs, graduation ceremonies, dance recitals, and sports competitions, among others (Craig, 2020). One 11-year-old child stated, “right now, we have to save the elderly and the people who are already sick and fight through this.” These are very impressive sentiments from such a young person. Yet, his words also illuminate other aspects of the pandemic narrative that are concerning. First of all, there is the setup of “us versus them,” with younger people needing to sacrifice for older people. Second, there is no expression of concern for younger people, front-line workers, or health-care professionals who also experience the threat. Finally, the phrase “the elderly” is used to represent the older population. This pandemic is reinforcing one of the most damaging stereotypes: that older people are one monolithic group of vulnerable folks who need protection. Our concern is that the COVID-19 pandemic will set us back in long-standing efforts to confront ageism and reduce age stereotyping. This pandemic is reinforcing one of the most damaging stereotypes: that older people are one monolithic group of vulnerable folks who need protection. Our concern is that the COVID-19 pandemic will set us back in long-standing efforts to confront ageism and reduce age stereotyping.