ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the insights of activists working for social change regarding sexism and ageism. Oppressive social power imbalances must be addressed to create real change in the delivery of health care to the elderly. Numerous health studies exclude women, relying on a male norm that may or may not apply to women's bodies. The social and economic oppressions that women face are formidable barriers to adequate and ethical health care. The liberation of old women would require a transformation of society that would create fuller health and life for everyone. Women 65 and over are the majority of recipients of Supplemental Social Security Income on the basis of age Medicare pays for a much smaller percent of women's total healthcare expenditures, especially if they are unmarried. Poor and minority women often have jobs without health and retirement benefits.
