In the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Area Mujer webinar, "Women and Age: A Different Look at a Common Problem," held in September, the topic of ageism, particularly its impact on women, took center stage. Dr. Gladis Fischer, a lawyer and community gerontology specialist, delivered an enlightening talk that challenged prevailing attitudes toward aging, specifically focusing on the discrimination faced by elderly women.
Dr. Fischer introduced the concept of "ageism"—a form of discrimination against individuals simply because they are old, and how it disproportionately affects women. She pointed out that old age is often associated with weakness, exclusion, and invisibility, particularly for women, who are already marginalized by gender biases. Ageism begins at home, with older women being pushed to the periphery of family life and then further isolated from the workplace and society at large. The most alarming issue discussed was how Western society, driven by consumerism, places little value on elderly women who are no longer seen as economically productive. Dr. Fischer emphasized the damaging effect of societal pressures on women, which force them to conceal the natural signs of aging, resulting in psychological and emotional burdens.
At the core of the webinar’s discussion was the question: why do we fear growing old? Through both statistical insights and personal stories, Dr. Fischer revealed the depth of age-related discrimination faced by women worldwide. According to global projections, by 2050, 24% of the world's population will be over 65 years old, up from 8.2% in 2009. Dr. Fischer emphasized that despite their growing numbers, elderly women remain marginalized, often living in poverty without adequate public support.
“In Paraguay, for example, many women over 50 struggle to find employment, while social norms dictate their exclusion from public life and leadership positions,’ she said.
Dr. Fischer recounted an indigenous community in Mexico where older people, particularly women, are revered for their wisdom and assume leadership roles only after turning 50—an inspiring model for societal reform.
The conversation tied into Global Peace Women’s (GPW) work that advocates for and promotes policies that support women in all stages of life. GPW is dedicated to advancing the rights and dignity of women worldwide. By encouraging a culture of respect and inclusion for aging women, GPF’s work in creating awareness, influencing policy, and fostering dialogue around gender and age-related issues serves as a crucial response to the challenges identified by Dr. Fischer.
Women, aging, and the societal expectations placed upon them are issues that transcend borders. In the webinar, Dr. Fischer explored the painful reality for many elderly women living in poverty, using examples from Paraguay and Cuba. Yet, she also called for empowerment and resilience, urging society to view old age as an opportunity for growth, contribution, and leadership, especially for women. The takeaway was clear: aging should be celebrated as a stage where women, freed from certain societal obligations, can pursue their dreams and continue making meaningful contributions.
As Dr. Fischer concluded with a poignant quote from actress Meryl Streep, the message of self-acceptance and pride in aging resonated: "Let no one take away the wrinkles on my forehead achieved through wonder at the beauty of life... They are mine, and they are beautiful." This encapsulates the spirit of the conversation—a call for dignity, respect, and recognition for elderly women around the world.
Read more about our work in uplifting women’s value and dignity.