Understandings of Ageism and Healthcare in the COVID-19 Pandemic

Ageism is widespread and intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic, with resource shortages contributing to healthcare guidelines that systematically deprioritised older adults. Whilst the ethical considerations of these guidelines are well documented, perceptions of age and ageism in healthcare allocation remain underexplored. This study examined younger and older adults' perceptions of age and ageism in healthcare during COVID-19 through a social identity approach. Using a story completion method, 22 older and 41 younger adult participants completed a story about a younger or older COVID-19 patient and doctors allocating the last available ventilator. Using thematic analysis, three themes were developed: (1) age determines health, (2) age determines the value of life, and (3) age determines acceptance of death. Results support the need for policies protecting against the influence of ageism in healthcare systems and emphasise the need to understand how internalised ageism may influence perceptions and health behaviours of older patients.