The Medical vs. Casual Divide
To understand whether the term is appropriate, one must first recognize the fundamental difference between its medical and casual uses. Geriatrics is a medical specialty, a precise field of medicine dedicated to the healthcare of older people. A doctor specializing in this field is a geriatrician. In a clinical or academic setting, discussing 'geriatric care' or 'geriatric syndromes' is standard, neutral practice.
However, when the word is used casually to describe an individual, its meaning changes entirely. It often becomes a pejorative term, implying a person is old, frail, or mentally diminished. A survey by NPR found strong disapproval of the term 'geriatric' when used in casual conversation among older adults. The word’s misuse outside of a clinical context contributes to ageism, the damaging stereotypes and negative attitudes toward older adults and the aging process.
The History and Origin of 'Geriatric'
The term 'geriatrics' has medical origins. It was proposed in 1909 by Ignatz Nascher, who saw the need for a specialized field for older adults, akin to pediatrics for children. This historical context explains its legitimacy within medicine but does not excuse its evolution into a sometimes-offensive colloquialism. Many words that start as purely medical or scientific terms can, over time, acquire negative social connotations. This is precisely what has happened with 'geriatric' and other terms like 'elderly'.
Why 'Geriatric' Can Be Offensive
The potential for offense comes from several key factors:
- Medicalizes the Individual: Applying a medical term to a person's identity can reduce them to a list of symptoms or conditions, overlooking their individuality, experience, and value.
- Implies Frailty or Decline: For many, the word 'geriatric' is not associated with proactive health but with decay, frailty, and being 'worn out'. This ignores the diversity and vitality present within the older population.
- Reinforces Stereotypes: The casual use of the word perpetuates ageist ideas that all older people are alike and in a state of physical or mental decline, which is far from the truth.
- Removes Agency: Language matters. Using terms that imply weakness or obsolescence can affect how older adults are perceived and treated by others, and even how they see themselves.
Alternatives to 'Geriatric' and 'Elderly'
Because the word 'geriatric' is so loaded outside of a medical context, it is crucial to use respectful and inclusive language when referring to older adults. Authorities like the American Medical Association and the Gerontological Society of America have specific guidelines for this.
Here are some preferred alternatives:
- Older Adults: The most widely recommended and generally accepted term, often used by health and government organizations like the National Institute on Aging.
- Older Persons: A neutral and respectful term.
- A Person's Specific Age: When relevant, using a person's specific age or age range is both accurate and non-stereotypical (e.g., 'people over 75,' or 'men in their 80s').
- Senior: While sometimes considered neutral, some older individuals find the term patronizing, so 'older adults' is generally safer.
- Person-First Language: Always prioritize the person over their condition or age group. For example, instead of 'the Alzheimer's patient,' say 'a person living with Alzheimer's'.
A Guide to Choosing the Right Language
Navigating terminology can be confusing, but a few simple rules can help ensure your language is respectful and accurate.
Understanding Context
Consider your audience and your purpose. Is it a clinical discussion? 'Geriatric' is fine. Is it an article for the general public, or a conversation with a family member? 'Older adult' is a much better choice.
Person-First Language
Adopt a "person-first" mindset. This simple shift in perspective—viewing an individual as a person first, and their age or condition second—is the core of respectful communication. The British Geriatrics Society provides an excellent guide on this, recommending phrases like "person living with dementia" over "demented". This mindset prevents you from making assumptions or reducing an individual's identity to a single characteristic.
Medical Use vs. Everyday Use of 'Geriatric'
| Feature | Medical/Clinical Context | Everyday/Casual Context |
|---|---|---|
| Usage | Term for a medical specialty, condition, or care type. | Used as a descriptor for an individual or group. |
| Meaning | Precise and factual. Refers to the care of older patients. | Often pejorative, implying frailty, incompetence, or obsolescence. |
| Example | 'Geriatric medicine focuses on multi-morbidity in older adults.' | 'Look at that bunch of geriatrics.' (Potentially offensive) |
| Appropriateness | Fully appropriate and necessary. | Inappropriate and potentially offensive. Should be avoided. |
| Focus | On the medical field and quality of care. | On the perceived status or decline of the person. |
Conclusion: The Power of Respectful Language
In the end, deciding whether to say 'geriatric' comes down to a simple question of empathy and intent. The term has a clear, valid place in medical and clinical language. However, the potential for it to be misinterpreted, perceived as disrespectful, or cause offense in casual conversation is high. For general use, opting for a neutral, person-centered term like 'older adult' is not only safer but also a proactive step against ageism. Respectful language honors a person's individuality and recognizes the vast diversity within the aging population, helping to foster a more inclusive and empathetic society.
For more guidance on age-inclusive language, refer to the resources provided by the National Institute on Aging: Don’t call me “old”: Avoiding ageism when writing about aging.
