Defining a ‘Risk Group’ and Ageism in the Era of COVID-19

By classifying older adults, based on chronological age, as a higher risk group of coronavirus disease, 2019 is unacceptable and unfair- potentially reinforcing ageism. This ageist approach can accelerate the risk of social isolation, and heightened levels of psychosocial distress. Moreover, a general calculation of the number that is generated merely from the case fatality rate surely will mislead the indicators of the epidemic’s trajectory, and lead to another infodemic. Therefore, transparency in news dissemination, the underlying health conditions and cultural differences of older adults are essential aspects while defining a risk group.