Ageism in Healthcare

Age discrimination, commonly known as ageism, represents one of the most widely accepted forms of prejudice in society. While it can affect individuals of all ages, older adults are especially at risk. Ageism continues to be prevalent even with the growing population of older adults. 

Ageism creates barriers to care resulting in considerably poorer health outcomes and lower quality of life for patients. Evidence of ageism transcends cultural, ethnic, and geographical boundaries, and healthcare professionals are not exempt from its impact. Studies indicate that negative perceptions regarding age and aging contribute to workforce shortages in the aged care sector. Furthermore, ageism can influence how clinicians participate in shared decision-making with older patients.

This interactive module highlights a multifaceted approach to addressing ageism. Participants will learn: what healthy aging is, how to define ageism, how ageism impacts cancer care, and practical strategies for addressing ageism.

By raising awareness of the impact of ageism on older individuals and dispelling prevalent myths about aging, clinicians may better understand the biological, psychological, and sociological needs of their patients. 

This educational program consists of four chapters which should take about one hour to complete in total. This course has been approved to provide participants with continuing medical education credits upon completion.

To begin, please click here or the ‘Course Content’ button above to complete a paid registration and access the material. Instructions for claiming CME credit are shown on the final slide of the module. 

1. Define the concept of healthy aging along with the typical physiological changes associated with the aging process.
2. Define ageism and its effects on the physical and emotional health of older adults.
3. Examine the influence of ageism on cancer care.
4. Identify strategies to address ageism.

Access Fees

• MD, NPs, PAs, and Licensed Interprofessional Team Members: $75

• Students (RN, APP, Med Students): $50

Registration and Access Instructions

To begin, please click here or the ‘Course Content’ button above to complete a paid registration and access the material. Instructions for claiming CME credit are shown on the final slide of the module. 

This Memorial Sloan Kettering Continuing Medical Education on demand program is non-refundable.

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

AMA Credit Designation Statement 

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center designates this enduring material for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. 

Recorded/Review Date: July 21, 2025; Original Release Date: July 21, 2025; Termination Date: July 21, 2028

Mitigation of Relevant Financial Relationships

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center adheres to the ACCME’s Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Education. Any individuals in a position to control the content of a CE activity, including faculty, planners, reviewers, or others are required to disclose all financial relationships with ineligible companies (commercial interests). All relevant financial relationships have been mitigated prior to the commencement of the activity.

The Fan Fox & Leslie R Samuels Foundation Inc.