Communication Breakdown—Response to “The Social Separation of Old and Young: A Root of Ageism”

This paper responds to Hagestad and Uhlenberg’s seminal work, which illustrates how ageism and spatial segregation of older adults form a vicious cycle. We argue that spatial segregation exacerbates ageism and cognitive decline by causing intergenerational communication breakdowns, generated by senescent sensory decline, stereotype threats, and digital communication barriers. Thus, online interactions, rather than in-person encounters, can reinforce ageist stereotypes. Conversely, research from our labs shows physical synchrony and supportive, attachment-secure relationships enhance cognitive and sensory abilities, possibly mitigating ageism’s detrimental effects. We advocate fostering in-person, cross-generational interactions as crucial interventions against ageism, improving well-being across the lifespan.