Anti-Ageing On TikTok

CONCLUSIONS

The relentless pursuit of youthfulness among young people not only perpetuates ageist attitudes but exacerbates them. Society's obsession with youthfulness marginalises older individuals, reinforcing the notion that their worth diminishes as they age. This narrative, perpetuated by media and marketing, creates a culture where older women, or women who don't fit beauty ideals in particular, feel invisible and undervalued. It's a vicious cycle that starts with teenagers striving to delay the inevitable, inadvertently reinforcing discriminatory attitudes towards ageing.

The pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty, which prioritize youthfulness above all else, takes a toll on the mental health and self-esteem of individuals across generations. For teenagers like Lorna Garcia, the fear of developing wrinkles at a young age leads to anxiety and self-doubt. Meanwhile, older women who don't fit the mold of eternal youthfulness may experience feelings of inadequacy and invisibility. This relentless pursuit of an unattainable ideal leaves many grappling with their self-worth and struggling to find acceptance in a culture that values youth above all else.

In a society obsessed with youth, older women often find themselves pushed to the sidelines, their voices and experiences overlooked. Despite their wisdom, accomplishments, and contributions to society, older women are frequently relegated to the background, deemed less relevant or desirable simply because of their age. This invisibility not only erases the rich tapestry of experiences that older women bring but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes about ageing, further marginalizing them in various aspects of life.

From being passed over for job opportunities to experiencing disparities in medical treatment, older women often face systemic barriers that hinder their economic security, health outcomes, and overall well-being. These challenges underscore the urgent need for societal change to address ageism and promote inclusivity across all spheres of life.

There's a critical need for greater representation and inclusivity of older women in media, advertising, and cultural narratives to combat ageism and challenge societal norms around beauty and ageing. By showcasing diverse representations of beauty and ageing, society can celebrate the richness and complexity of life at every stage.