Final answer:
The answer is A) True. Ageism significantly contributes to feelings of despair among some older adults by fostering negative stereotypes and discrimination, leading to elder abuse and psychological challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ageism and Despair in Old Age
Ageism definitely contributes to some older adults' feeling of despair, which makes the answer A) True. As the aging population encounters ageism, they face negative stereotypes and discrimination that can result in misconceptions about their abilities and worth. The elderly face challenges like financial insecurity, physical frailty, and dependency on caregivers, which can increase their vulnerability to elder abuse and lead to feelings of hopelessness. The recession of 2008 may have also negatively impacted many older adults financially. While old age can be a time for hobbies and family, it also may come with increased loneliness and less social interaction, especially after retirement. These conditions foster an environment where despair can take root.
Cultural attitudes, including prejudicial treatment due to age, can greatly affect the well-being of the elderly. Respect and honor for the elderly, which is more prevalent in some cultures, can have a positive effect on their mental health. Conversely, the widespread negative judgments found in some aspects of U.S. culture contribute to the emotional and psychological challenges faced by the aging population.