Ageism in artificial intelligence for health
This World Health Organization report examines how ageism manifests within artificial intelligence applications designed for health care. It analyses potential biases against older populations in AI-driven health technologies and offers guidance on ensuring age-inclusive design and deployment. The document provides recommendations for stakeholders across the health and technology sectors to prevent discrimination and promote equitable health outcomes for older adults.
Summary and content fields are drawn from the document text and are pending editorial review.
Who issued it
Who it governs
Developers, policymakers, and health professionals seeking to understand and mitigate age-related biases in health AI technologies.
What the document contains
The document addresses the intersection of age discrimination and health-related artificial intelligence, highlighting risks to older adults and outlining ethical considerations for developers and policymakers.
The text does not provide binding legal enforcement mechanisms, technical software code standards, or formal regulatory penalties.
- Artificial intelligence in health can perpetuate or exacerbate ageism if not carefully designed and regulated.
- Older adults risk being excluded from datasets, leading to less effective or biased health technologies.
- Inclusive design principles must be integrated throughout the AI lifecycle in healthcare.
- Policymakers and developers share responsibility for safeguarding the rights and health outcomes of older populations.
Not stated
How it scores
Each score is backed by a quote verified against the document text. Editorial review has not yet confirmed them.
Accountability
0/5Clear responsibility for AI outcomes
n/a
screening score · 2026-10-24
Fairness
0/5Non-discrimination and equitable treatment
n/a
screening score · 2026-10-24
Human Dignity
0/5Respect for the inherent worth of persons
n/a
screening score · 2026-10-24
Human Oversight
0/5Humans remain in control of consequential decisions
n/a
screening score · 2026-10-24
Privacy
0/5Protection of personal data and private life
n/a
screening score · 2026-10-24
Transparency
0/5Openness about how AI systems work and are used
n/a
screening score · 2026-10-24
Enforcement
0/5Consequences and compliance mechanisms with real force
n/a
screening score · 2026-10-24
Impact Assessment
0/5Required assessment of an AI system's risks/impacts before or during use
n/a
screening score · 2026-10-24