Ageism is a form of discrimination which affects the elderly. Created by a socio-cultural environment in which youth is highly valued and rewarded, ageism have a marked impact on the Baby Boomer population, which is expected to reach the state of advanced age by 2030. These conditions characterize the need to identify factors which contribute to ageism in America, especially as a means of helping explore and promote the positive mental and physical health of the Baby Boomers. Factors pertaining to ageism are difficult to define and describe, however, as the Baby Boomer generation is an active participant by way of consumption within the youth-oriented American culture. Reducing ageism for the Baby Boomer generation is thus a significant challenge facing the health care industry, particularly in terms of reducing the onset of depressive disorders generated through a perceived denial of age.
