This article provides healthcare assistants (HCAs) with an insight into the sociological theories that underpin how ‘old age’ as a concept is constructed by society and how this can influence the way that older people are perceived as a result. The theories discussed offer consideration from both a historical and a comparative standpoint in order to stimulate thinking and discussion of emotive topics such as ageism. It also allows HCAs to engage in critical reflection on their own contribution to healthcare practice so that they can develop best practice and seek to change aspects of their interaction with older people that might not before have been considered. The article emphasises the relevance of this to HCAs by giving examples from practice, to demonstrate how these sociological theories impact on the everyday ability to provide care.