[turk184]

Lots of things are crimes in the US, but if you're part of the "special" class, you will not be prosecuted for them, e.g. Hillary Clinton.

As far as ageism goes, companies know exactly how to get away with it without undue legal exposure. Same as it ever was.

Note to all developers: YOU WILL GET OLD! Your mental faculties and physical abilities will fail you. Plan accordingly. You have a very fixed set of time to make the bulk of your income in life and there is a very steep tail off at the end unless you are extremely lucky, which most people who are unprepared will not be. You need to consider a backup career, something you can do if "knowledge work" can't happen for you for whatever reason.

I'm sure plenty of developers can work on into their 60s, but it's simply not realistic. Figure age 50-55 and out, or perhaps slide into a non-development role by leveraging your contacts and reputation. Otherwise, find the $10-15/hr. part-time job of your choice. That's how it is.