Understanding Respectful Language: How Do You Refer to Elderly People?

According to the World Health Organization, ageism is prevalent worldwide and has serious implications for the health of older people. Learning how do you refer to elderly people with respect and care is a vital step toward combating this discrimination and fostering a more inclusive society. This guide explores the evolving landscape of age-inclusive language.

Quick Summary

The most widely accepted and respectful terms are "older adults," "older people," or "older persons," as they are neutral and person-centered. Many modern style guides and advocacy groups advise against using outdated or potentially stigmatizing labels like "elderly," "senior citizen," or "the aged."

Key Points

• Embrace Neutral Terms: "Older adults," "older people," or "older persons" are the most respectful and widely accepted terms for general reference.

• Avoid Outdated Labels: Terms like "elderly," "senior citizen," and "the aged" are often considered outdated or carry negative, ageist connotations.

• Use Person-First Language: Prioritize the individual over their age, describing specific age ranges when necessary for clarity (e.g., "adults over 80").

• Respect Individual Preferences: Always ask how an individual prefers to be addressed, using their name or preferred honorific.

• Tailor Language to Context: The most appropriate term depends on the setting, such as formal writing versus casual conversation, emphasizing respect in all interactions.

• Combat Ageism: Choosing sensitive and accurate terminology is a powerful way to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote dignity for older people.

The Importance of Age-Inclusive Language

Words carry weight. The language we use to describe older individuals can either reinforce negative stereotypes or promote dignity and respect. Ageism, prejudice against individuals or groups based on their age, can manifest subtly through our choice of words. Outdated or loaded terms can paint a picture of frailty, helplessness, or diminished capacity, which is inaccurate for the vast majority of older adults who lead active, vibrant lives. Using inclusive language is not just about political correctness; it’s about acknowledging the diversity of the aging experience and treating every individual with the respect they deserve.

Impact of Negative Terminology

Subtle ageism in language has been shown to have a real-world impact. Research from organizations like the National Institute on Aging (NIA) demonstrates that exposure to negative age stereotypes can affect older people’s physical and mental health. When individuals are constantly confronted with messages that portray aging negatively, they may internalize these messages, leading to poorer health outcomes, including reduced quality of life and even a shorter lifespan. Choosing positive, person-first language helps reframe the conversation around aging, focusing on the individual's worth and contributions rather than a number or a stereotype.

Preferred Terminology for Older Adults

Today, many authoritative sources, including the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, recommend specific terms to ensure clarity and respect. Here are some of the most widely accepted phrases:

1. Older Adults: This is the most common and broadly accepted term in both academic and public health contexts. It is neutral, non-stigmatizing, and accurately describes the demographic without implying a negative state.
2. Older People / Older Persons: Similar to "older adults," these terms are respectful and accurate. They emphasize the person rather than defining them by their age group.
3. Specific Age Ranges: When precision is necessary, referring to a specific age range is often best. For example, "adults aged 65 and over" or "the population aged 75–85" is clear and avoids generalization.
4. Maturing Adults: This term is gaining traction for its positive framing, focusing on growth and development throughout the lifespan.

Terms to Approach with Caution or Avoid

While some terms have been common in the past, their use is now discouraged due to their potential to carry negative or inaccurate connotations. Shifting away from these terms is a key step toward using more sensitive and respectful language.

• Elderly: This term is often associated with frailty and decline and is generally considered outdated and potentially offensive. It’s best to replace it with "older adults."
• Senior / Senior Citizen: While historically common, these terms can be viewed as othering or patronizing. Many older adults find them unappealing. "Senior citizen" also has governmental origins tied to social security, which can add to the sense of being categorized based on age for benefits.
• The Aged: This is often seen as dehumanizing, lumping a diverse group of people into a single, impersonal category.
• Geriatric (as a descriptor for people): This term refers to the branch of medicine specializing in older adults and should not be used to describe people themselves.
• Boomer: This generational label is increasingly used in derogatory ways and should be avoided when referring to individuals in a potentially dismissive manner. The National Institute on Aging offers helpful guidance on avoiding ageist language for writers and communicators.

Context is Key: Choosing the Right Term

The most appropriate terminology often depends on the context of the conversation or writing. While "older adults" is a safe general choice, specificity is often better. For example, when referring to an individual, using their name is always the most respectful option. In formal writing, clarity and specificity are paramount. In casual conversation, a simple, respectful approach is best.

Context	Appropriate Terminology	Less Appropriate Terminology
Formal Writing (e.g., research)	"Adults aged 65-75," "Older populations"	"The elderly," "Senior citizens"
Healthcare Setting	"Older patients," "Residents"	"Geriatric patients," "The frail"
General Public	"Older adults," "People over 60"	"Seniors," "The aged"
Headline (for brevity)	"Older Adults," "People over 65"	"Elderly," "Seniors" (unless specific to a discount)
Referring to an individual	"Mr./Ms. Smith," "John" (if invited)	"Granny," "Old timer"

Personal Preference is Paramount

The golden rule of respectful communication is to prioritize the individual's preference. If you are interacting directly with an older person, the most respectful approach is to address them by their name and ask how they prefer to be addressed. Many people have their own preferences and may not mind terms that are widely considered outdated, especially if they grew up with them. However, when you do not know a person's preference, defaulting to neutral, person-centered language is the safest and most considerate course of action. This practice shows that you respect them as an individual first and foremost.

Conclusion

Choosing how to refer to elderly people is about more than just words; it's about shifting our societal perspective on aging itself. By consciously moving away from outdated, ageist language and embracing modern, respectful terminology, we contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic society. Opting for terms like "older adults" in general contexts, being specific with age ranges where needed, and always prioritizing an individual’s personal preference fosters an environment of dignity and respect. As the population continues to age, this mindful approach to communication becomes increasingly important for healthy aging and care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to use the term "senior citizen"?

While commonly used, many older adults and organizations now prefer alternatives like "older adults" because "senior citizen" can carry outdated connotations of frailty or dependence and is often tied to institutional benefits rather than the individual.

What should I use instead of "elderly"?

For general reference, use "older adults," "older people," or be more specific by stating an age range, such as "adults over 75." This avoids the potentially negative and imprecise connotations of "elderly."

Can I just call an older person "ma'am" or "sir"?

Yes, as a sign of general respect. However, once you have an ongoing relationship, using their name or a preferred honorific is a more personal and respectful approach. Many people find these generic terms impersonal.

Is it okay to call an older person "elder"?

The term "elder" is often culturally specific and may not be universally appropriate. In some cultures, it is a term of deep respect. For general use, "older adult" is a safer, more neutral, and less potentially offensive choice.

Why is using the right terminology so important?

Using respectful, inclusive language helps to combat ageism and avoid perpetuating negative stereotypes that can impact the health, self-esteem, and overall well-being of older people. It promotes a more positive and dignified view of aging.

What is person-first language in this context?

Person-first language emphasizes the individual before any demographic label or health condition. For example, instead of focusing on their age, you focus on their identity as a person first. For example, you would use their name rather than calling them 'the elderly lady.'

How do I address a group of older people?

The best general term is "older adults" or "older people." If relevant and known, you can also specify the age range, such as "the population aged 65 and over," for greater clarity and respect.

Is using "old" respectful?

While "older" is acceptable in phrases like "older adults," simply calling someone "old" can be offensive and dehumanizing, defining them by a single characteristic rather than their full identity.