Are doctors biased against older patients and those with dementia?

Some people may not be offered the treatment they need because attending teams may be subconsciously prejudiced.

The writers say that ableism, ageism and dementia-ism are real and even seniors may devalue their own lives. ST PHOTO: GIN TAY
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As society ages, efforts are afoot to enable seniors to live dignified and meaningful lives. But ageism – prejudices based on a person’s chronological age – remains entrenched. While ageism in the workplace is not uncommon, is there ageism in healthcare too?

Patient A was a 78-year-old man with mild dementia. A degenerative spine disease meant that he also needed assistance in daily activities.

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