Can we say the elderly?: Why 'Older Adults' is the Preferred Term

According to the National Institute on Aging, using disrespectful and stereotypical language has been shown to have negative health implications for older people, including poorer physical and mental well-being. This guide explores why it is generally best to avoid the term can we say the elderly? and offers more respectful, age-inclusive alternatives.

Quick Summary

Using "the elderly" is often considered outdated and disrespectful because it can promote ageist stereotypes of frailty and dependency, while failing to acknowledge the individuality of people in this broad demographic. More accurate and respectful alternatives, such as "older adults," are recommended by medical and journalistic organizations.

Key Points

• Avoid Stereotypes: The term "the elderly" is problematic because it groups a diverse population into a single, often negatively stereotyped category.

• Use 'Older Adults': Major medical and academic organizations recommend using the neutral and respectful term "older adults" as the preferred alternative.

• Emphasize Individuality: Respectful language focuses on the person, not the age group, and avoids impersonal and depersonalizing labels like "the disabled" or "the elderly".

• Promote Health Outcomes: Research indicates that experiencing ageist language and attitudes is linked to poorer physical and mental health outcomes for older people.

• Use Specifics: For precision, especially in formal or medical contexts, use specific age ranges, such as "people aged 65 and older," rather than broad generalizations.

• Recognize Cultural Sensitivity: Terms like "elders" may carry positive, respectful connotations in certain cultural contexts, such as in Indigenous communities, but require careful and sensitive application.

• Consider the 'Why': The push for more inclusive language stems from a desire to combat ageism and foster a more positive, respectful view of aging as a normal and valuable part of life.

Understanding Ageism and Language

Ageism is a form of prejudice and discrimination that is directed against people based on their age. It can manifest in many ways, from discriminatory employment practices to harmful stereotypes perpetuated through everyday language. The phrases we use to describe older individuals and the aging process can have a significant impact on how they are perceived and treated by society. The seemingly simple question of can we say the elderly? opens a larger conversation about the role of language in either reinforcing or challenging ageist attitudes.

Why 'The Elderly' is Problematic

Many prominent medical and academic organizations, including the American Medical Association and the Gerontological Society of America, now advise against using the term "the elderly." There are several key reasons for this shift in professional and respectful discourse:

• It Promotes a Monolithic View: The term lumps a diverse group of individuals, who may be separated by decades in age and have vastly different life experiences, into a single, impersonal category. An active, healthy 70-year-old has little in common with a frail 95-year-old, yet "the elderly" places them both in the same box. This erases their individuality and promotes a 'them vs. us' mentality.
• Negative Connotations: The word "elderly" often carries inherent negative connotations of frailty, illness, and dependence. This can foster a condescending attitude and reinforce inaccurate stereotypes about aging as a state of decline rather than a natural part of the human experience.
• "Othering" and Depersonalization: As with phrases like "the disabled," referring to a group of people with the definite article "the" followed by an adjective can dehumanize them. It frames them as an outsider group rather than as individuals with unique identities and contributions to society.

More Inclusive and Respectful Terminology

To promote age-inclusive language, it is crucial to use words that are both respectful and accurate. The following alternatives are widely endorsed by healthcare professionals, journalists, and advocacy groups.

Recommended Alternative Terms

• Older Adults: This is the most widely recommended and neutral term. It acknowledges their age without carrying the negative baggage of "elderly." It is the preferred term used by organizations like the National Institute on Aging (NIA).
• Older Persons / Older People: Similar to older adults, these terms are respectful and inclusive, referring to a group without stereotyping.
• People Aged 65 and Older / Over 70: Using specific age ranges or simply stating the age is the most precise and accurate approach. It avoids generalizations and allows for more specific context, such as in medical studies or demographic reports.
• Seniors: While still in common use, many find "senior" and "senior citizen" to be patronizing or outdated. However, it can be acceptable if individuals or organizations prefer it.

Comparing Different Terms for Referring to Older People

Term	Connotation	Level of Respect	Context	Age-Inclusive?
The Elderly	Often negative, associated with frailty and dependency.	Low to disrespectful, seen as outdated.	Best avoided entirely due to strong negative associations.	No
Older Adults	Neutral, respectful, and person-centered.	High, emphasizes individuality.	Widely accepted in medical, academic, and journalistic writing.	Yes
Seniors	Tolerable, though some find it patronizing.	Medium, less formal.	Common in commercial settings (e.g., "senior discounts"). Use with caution.	Sometimes
Elders	Respected, prestigious (especially in specific cultures).	High, but use with cultural sensitivity.	Appropriate in Indigenous cultures or when referring to spiritual or community leaders.	Culturally dependent
People Aged 65+	Specific and accurate.	High, focuses on fact rather than stereotype.	Ideal for formal writing, research, and technical documents.	Yes

The Psychology Behind Age-Inclusive Language

The way we talk about aging directly influences our perceptions and even the health outcomes of older people. Studies have found that experiencing ageism, even in subtle linguistic forms, can be linked to poorer physical and mental health. This is because negative stereotypes can become internalized, influencing self-esteem and quality of life.

Respectful language is a powerful tool for combating these stereotypes. By consistently using person-first language and neutral terms like "older adults," we can help shift the narrative around aging from one of decline to one of ongoing life and vitality. This positive change benefits everyone involved, fostering better relationships and more effective communication in care settings, families, and communities.

A Call to Action for Better Communication

In a rapidly aging world, being mindful of our language is more important than ever. The NIA's blog post, "Don't call me 'old'," provides excellent guidance on avoiding ageism in writing. By following these principles, we can do more than just use politically correct phrases; we can help create a more respectful and inclusive society for people of all ages. Making the switch from "the elderly" to "older adults" is a simple yet meaningful step toward treating all individuals with the dignity and respect they deserve.

When writing, speaking, or advertising, consider the following best practices:

1. Prioritize Person-First Language: Always refer to the person first, not their age group. For example, say "an older person with diabetes" instead of "a diabetic elder".
2. Be Specific When Possible: In cases where age is relevant (such as for medical or research purposes), use specific age ranges rather than general labels.
3. Listen to Preferences: In personal interactions, respect how an individual prefers to be addressed. Some may be comfortable with terms others are not. A general rule of thumb is to default to the most respectful and neutral language.
4. Emphasize Strengths, not Deficits: Avoid fatalistic or catastrophic language when discussing aging. Frame demographic shifts as a sign of longer, healthier lives rather than a "silver tsunami".

By adopting these practices, we can move away from language that creates division and towards words that foster respect, understanding, and positive communication across generations.

Conclusion: A Shift Toward Respect

The move away from using the term "the elderly" represents a broader shift towards more thoughtful and respectful communication in healthy aging and senior care. It acknowledges the immense diversity within the older population and pushes back against harmful, ageist stereotypes. By choosing to use terms like "older adults" instead, we contribute to a more inclusive societal narrative. This change is not merely about political correctness but about promoting a deeper respect for individuals, honoring their rich life experiences, and fostering a culture where everyone feels valued, regardless of age. Choosing our words carefully is a small action with a profound impact on how we view and treat older members of our communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is 'the elderly' considered offensive by some people?

The term is seen as impersonal, outdated, and often carries negative connotations of frailty and dependence. It can promote ageist stereotypes by lumping all older people into a single, monolithic category, erasing their individuality.

What is the best alternative to using the term 'the elderly'?

The most widely recommended alternative is 'older adults' because it is a neutral, person-centered term that avoids negative connotations. Other respectful options include 'older people' or 'people over 65,' which are more specific.

Can I use 'seniors' or 'senior citizens'?

While commonly used, these terms are often viewed as patronizing or outdated by many. They are widely used in commercial contexts (e.g., 'senior discounts'), but for general or respectful communication, 'older adults' is preferred. Some individuals may still identify with these terms, so always consider individual preferences.

Does using the term 'elderly' cause any harm?

Yes. Research has linked exposure to ageist stereotypes, even in language, to negative health outcomes in older people, including reduced quality of life and poorer mental and physical health. Choosing respectful language can positively impact how individuals and society view aging.

Is it ever okay to use the term 'elders'?

The term 'elders' is often used positively in certain cultural contexts, particularly within Indigenous communities, to denote respect and wisdom. Its use is acceptable and culturally appropriate in these specific settings but should be avoided as a general term for older people.

How can I check if a term is respectful for older adults?

The best approach is to listen to how older adults refer to themselves and others in their age group. In a professional context, consulting style guides from authoritative bodies like the National Institute on Aging (NIA) or the American Medical Association (AMA) can provide reliable guidance.

What is age-inclusive language?

Age-inclusive language is terminology that promotes a respectful, positive, and accurate attitude toward older people and the aging process. It avoids words that reflect damaging stereotypes and emphasizes the individuality of every person, regardless of their age.