Age discrimination in the workplace can be a serious issue, and it’s important to be aware of the signs that an employer may be engaging in such practices. Here are some common signs of age discrimination from Atascadero attorney, Mary Ann Tardiff.
- Biased hiring practices: If the job postings consistently contain language that implies a preference for younger candidates, or if older candidates are consistently overlooked during the hiring process, it could be a sign of age discrimination.
- Age-related comments or jokes: If there is a prevalent culture of making derogatory or demeaning remarks about older employees or candidates, it may indicate a discriminatory attitude towards age.
- Lack of promotions or career development opportunities: If older employees are consistently passed over for promotions or are not given opportunities for career advancement, while younger employees with similar qualifications and experience are promoted, it could suggest age discrimination.
- Unequal treatment or policies: If an employer implements policies or practices that disproportionately affect older employees, such as mandatory retirement ages or limiting training opportunities for older workers, it may be indicative of age discrimination.
- Harassment or exclusion: If older employees are subjected to harassment or exclusion based on their age, either by colleagues or supervisors, it may be a form of age discrimination.
- Sudden changes in job requirements: If an employer abruptly changes job requirements or expectations in a way that disproportionately affects older employees, it may indicate an attempt to push them out of the organization.
- Disproportionate layoffs or terminations: If older employees are consistently targeted for layoffs or terminations, particularly if they are replaced by younger, less experienced workers, it could suggest age discrimination.
- Disparate access to benefits: If there is a discrepancy in the availability or quality of benefits, such as health insurance or retirement plans, between older and younger employees, it may be a sign of age discrimination.
It’s important to note that while these signs may indicate age discrimination, they do not guarantee its presence. If you suspect age discrimination, it’s advisable to consult with an attorney who can investigate the matter and represent your interests if you have been discriminated against because of your age.
Mary Ann Tardiff is an attorney in Atascadero, CA who works to help senior citizens with a variety of matters including:
- Estate planning, wills, trusts and tax issues
- Powers of Attorney
- Living wills or Advanced Health Care Directives
- Social Security benefits, Medicare and Medicaid coverage
- Retirement living, assisted living, nursing home and in-home care
- Age discrimination and elder abuse
- Assisting families with elder care issues
Most seniors live vital active lives but aging often brings complications from society that are not experienced by younger people. Age discrimination is only one of those complications that can create personal problems, cause concern for loved ones, and attract unwelcome attention from those who do not have senior citizens’ best interests at heart.
All stages of life are meant to be enjoyed with peace of mind. Mary Ann Tardiff, the Atascadero attorney, serves the needs of senior citizens. Knowing that as many of life-matters as possible have been addressed in advance is one path to comfort in our senior years.