The Hidden Workplace Discrimination We Don’t Talk About Enough: Ageism

There’s a silent, yet pervasive form of discrimination affecting millions of workers across the country—ageism. Unlike more commonly discussed forms of bias, age discrimination often flies under the radar, masked as casual jokes, overlooked promotions, or subtle assumptions about someone’s ability to adapt, learn, or lead.

At Lucien Law Group, we believe that justice in the workplace means protecting every employee—regardless of age. This post explores how age-based bias shows up, why it matters, and what you can do if you believe you’ve been targeted.

What Is Ageism?

Ageism is the stereotyping, prejudice, or discrimination against individuals based on their age. It’s often directed at older adults—especially those in their 50s, 60s, and beyond—but younger workers can also face assumptions that they are too inexperienced or immature.

In the workplace, age discrimination may look like:

• Being passed over for promotions in favor of younger colleagues

• Hearing comments like “we’re looking for fresh energy” or “you’re not the right cultural fit”

• Facing early retirement pressure

• Getting excluded from training, upskilling, or major projects

• Being laid off despite strong performance reviews

Why Ageism Is a Public Health Issue

Discrimination doesn’t just impact careers—it can take a toll on physical and mental health. Research has shown that internalizing negative beliefs about aging can lead to higher stress, poorer memory, slower recovery from illness, and even shorter lifespans.

Studies by public health experts have found that individuals with positive perceptions of aging live significantly longer—up to 7.5 years more—than those with negative beliefs. That’s a powerful reminder that the way society treats older adults matters on every level, from dignity and livelihood to life expectancy.

Age Discrimination Is Often Overlooked—But It’s Illegal

Under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), it is illegal to discriminate against employees or job applicants who are age 40 or older in any aspect of employment. This includes hiring, firing, promotions, layoffs, benefits, and job assignments.

Yet despite these legal protections, thousands of workers experience bias based on their age—and many don’t realize they may have a case.

If you were:

• Let go shortly before qualifying for retirement benefits

• Consistently excluded from decision-making roles or training

• Replaced by a significantly younger employee despite good performance

• Targeted with age-related jokes or comments that affected your work environment

…it may be time to speak with an employment attorney.

Building a More Inclusive Future—One Attitude at a Time

Ending age discrimination isn’t just about changing laws—it’s also about changing culture. Legal action is a powerful tool, but education and awareness matter, too. Here are three steps we can all take to create more age-inclusive workplaces and communities:

A – Awareness: Recognize ageist stereotypes around you—in ads, media, and everyday speech. Becoming aware is the first step to pushing back.
B – Blame the Bias, Not the Years: Don’t chalk up challenges or setbacks to aging itself. Often, it’s the bias against age that creates barriers.
C – Challenge Negative Messaging: Question comments or practices that devalue people based on age. Whether you’re 28 or 68, you deserve respect and opportunity.

Know Your Rights. Protect Your Future.

Whether you’re being pressured to retire, excluded from career growth, or laid off under suspicious circumstances, you don’t have to stay silent. Age discrimination is real—and it’s illegal.

At Lucien Law Group, we fight for fairness in the workplace. We represent employees who have experienced wrongful termination, harassment, and bias based on age, race, gender, disability, and more.

You deserve to work in an environment where your experience is valued—not used against you.

Contact Lucien Law Group

If you believe you’ve experienced age discrimination or any other form of workplace injustice, we’re here to listen—and take action.

📧 [email protected]
📞 (818) 937-4711
📍 Serving clients throughout California

Let’s challenge outdated ideas and build a more inclusive workplace—together.