Definition
Digital ageism refers to age-based discrimination embedded in digital technologies and AI systems that portrays older adults as passive or less competent, potentially discouraging their participation in technology-driven services.
KAIST Study (June 2026)
kaist researchers (Professor Moon Choi, Hong Wan) published in The Gerontologist (DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnaf291):
- Model tested: chatgpt GPT-4o
- Method: 900 samples, ages 10–90, Stereotype Content Model (warmth/competence)
- Finding: 60+ portrayed as high warmth but low competence — “warm but less competent” pattern mirroring mass-media age stereotypes
- Risk: repeated conversational AI exposure may reinforce stereotypes and hinder older adults’ digital participation