Age discrimination leaves people feeling like “second-class citizens”, charities say, as a survey reveals that a quarter of people over 50 claim they have been unfairly treated in shops, restaurants and hospitals.

Ageism also appeared to be linked to poorer health among those it affected, the study shows, with reported victims of age discrimination more likely to suffer health problems, or develop them over time.

The findings have been published in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, which surveyed more than 7,500 people over the age of 50 and followed their progress for six years.

Participants were asked to respond to statements such as "you are treated with less respect or courtesy", "you receive poorer service than other people in restaurants and stores", and "you receive poorer service or treatment than other people from doctors or hospitals".

They were also questioned about their experiences of being thought "not clever" or being threatened or harassed.