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Outline and explain two ways in which age may affect people's life chances. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 22 - 2017 - Paper 2
Question 22
Outline and explain two ways in which age may affect people's life chances.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline and explain two ways in which age may affect people's life chances. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 22 - 2017 - Paper 2
Step 1
Differences in Employment Opportunities
Answer
Age can significantly influence employment opportunities, particularly in hiring practices. Younger individuals may face difficulties in securing job positions due to lack of experience, while older candidates might be discriminated against due to perceived inflexibility or higher salary expectations. For instance, an older adult may find it hard to get hired in a technology-driven role due to assumptions about their adaptability to new technologies. Conversely, younger individuals may struggle to gain entry-level positions if employers favor older candidates based on experience.
Step 2
Healthcare Access and Aging
Answer
Another way age affects life chances is through access to healthcare services. As individuals age, they are more likely to encounter health issues, which can lead to increased healthcare needs. Older populations may have less access to quality healthcare due to systemic barriers, cost considerations, or lack of resources in their communities. This can impact their quality of life and longevity, thus affecting their overall life chances compared to younger individuals who may have fewer health concerns and greater access to preventive care.