Experienced discrimination amongst European old citizens

This study analyses the experienced age discrimination of old European citizens and the factors related to this discrimination.
Differences in experienced discrimination between old citizens of different European countries are explored. Data from the
2008 ESS survey are used. Old age is defined as being 62 years or older. The survey data come from 28 European countries and
14,364 old-age citizens. Their average age is 72 years. Factor analysis is used to construct the core variable ‘experienced
discrimination’. The influence of the independent variables on experienced discrimination is analysed using linear regression
analysis. About one-quarter of old European citizens sometimes or frequently experience discrimination because of their age.
Gender, education, income and belonging to a minority are related to experienced age discrimination. Satisfaction with life
and subjective health are strongly associated with experienced age discrimination, as is trust in other people and the seriousness
of age discrimination in the country. Large, significant differences in experienced discrimination due to old age exist between
European countries. A north-west versus south-east European gradient is found in experienced discrimination due to old age.
The socio-cultural context is important in explaining experienced age discrimination in old European citizens. Old-age discrimination
is experienced less frequently in countries with social security arrangements. Further research is needed to understand the
variation in (old) age discrimination between European countries. Measures recommended include increasing public awareness
about the value of ageing for communities and changing public attitudes towards the old in a positive way.