According to Survey, Nearly Every Older Worker Has Faced Bias Due to Age

Many forms of illegal discrimination in the workplace generate headlines. Allegations of racial bias can lead to protests and boycotts. Over the past decade, the #MeToo movement and several high-profile lawsuits have shed light on the harassment that many women face on the job. Seemingly less attention is paid to age discrimination. This is odd, because it is a form of employment bias that could eventually affect every worker. In fact, a survey shows that nearly all older employees have experienced mistreatment due to their advanced years. 

A May 2025 survey of 878 U.S. employees over age 50 revealed how unappreciated and undervalued older workers feel. The Age Disrespect Report by Resume Now found that 90 percent reported experiencing some type of age discrimination. Almost half agreed with the statement that they often feel belittled by younger colleagues. These statistics are not just unfortunate, they might indicate that a massive amount of illegal discrimination is going unpunished. 

Under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), employers with 20 or more employees may not discriminate against workers aged 40 or older in hiring, compensation, assignments, promotions or terminations. The law also prohibits harassment based on age and retaliation against individuals who assert their rights. When age bias manifests in pay disparities, exclusion from training or hostile workplace behavior, employees may have grounds for a claim.

Specific forms of mistreatment cited by survey respondents include the following:

  • Being overlooked for significant projects

  • Exclusion from discussions where future plans are discussed

  • Losing out on promotions to younger co-workers

  • Failure to receive the same pay raises and incentives as colleagues

There are many other ways that age discrimination can creep into the workplace. Some managers subscribe to the false notion that older men and women have troubling adapting to new technology or systemic changes. If you hear insulting comments about your age or you’re being left out of key meetings, that might be indicative of a bigger problem. 

Keep detailed notes of discriminatory remarks, assignment changes or pay differentials. Save emails, performance reviews and organizational charts that might help prove your ADEA case.  An employment attorney at Kardell Law Group can evaluate your situation, advise on potential relief and guide you through mediation or litigation.