Hi all,
I’ve noticed threads that lean into ageist assumptions, and I wanted to gently challenge that. Ageism – like any form of prejudice – can creep in subtly, often wrapped in jokes or stereotypes. But it’s worth pausing to ask: would we say the same things about someone based on race, gender, or disability?
Here are a few points I hope you’ll consider:
1. Ageing is universal – and inevitable.
None of us are getting younger. When we mock, belittle, or stereotype older people, we’re essentially insulting our future selves. That’s not empowerment – it’s short-sighted.
2. Older women are still women – and still part of this community.
Mumsnet prides itself on being a space for open discussion across generations. Many of us are parenting teens or adult children, navigating menopause, or caring for ageing parents. Dismissing older posters or voices undermines the richness of this community.
3. Ageism hurts everyone – including younger people.
When we devalue older people, we reinforce narrow ideas about worth being tied to youth. That puts unfair pressure on younger women, too – to look a certain way, achieve everything fast, and fear growing older instead of embracing it.
4. Life experience matters.
There's a reason we say “wisdom comes with age.” Older posters often have a broader perspective, having lived through different political, cultural, and economic changes. Their input isn’t outdated – it’s informed.
5. Many older people are still working, caring, learning, and growing.
The stereotype of older women being out of touch or irrelevant is lazy and false. Many are raising grandchildren, running businesses, getting degrees, and yes – posting on Mumsnet.
6. We can challenge ageism and still joke, disagree, and debate.
This isn't about tone-policing or silencing. It’s just a reminder that we all benefit from a bit of thoughtfulness before posting. Criticism is fine – but let's make sure it's aimed at ideas, not age groups.
In short: ageism shouldn't have a place on Mumsnet. We shouldn't tolerate racism, sexism or ableism here – let’s give ageism the same zero tolerance.
Thanks for reading if you got this far – I really do believe this space can be better when everyone feels welcome, regardless of their age.