A Shift in Terminology: Why 'Elderly' Is Falling Out of Favor
The language we use shapes our perceptions and attitudes. For decades, the term "elderly" was a common descriptor for older individuals. However, as awareness of ageism—discrimination based on age—has grown, many organizations and older adults themselves have called for a shift toward more inclusive terminology. The word "elderly" is often criticized for several reasons:
- Negative Stereotypes: It tends to evoke images of frailty, decline, and dependency, homogenizing a diverse group of individuals. This ignores the fact that older adults are not a monolith and have a wide range of abilities, health, and lifestyles.
- Othering Effect: Using the phrase "the elderly" can create a sense of "us vs. them," distancing older individuals from the rest of society. This framing can subtly reinforce the idea that aging is a process to be feared or a problem to be solved, rather than a natural part of the human experience.
- Lack of Specificity: The term is vague and imprecise, often lumping people from a wide age range into a single, ill-defined category. More specific, person-first language allows for a more accurate and respectful representation of individuals and populations.
Many authoritative style guides, including those from the American Medical Association and the Associated Press, now advise against using the term "elderly," recommending alternatives that are more neutral and respectful.
Preferred Alternatives to the Word 'Elderly'
To foster a more inclusive and respectful conversation around aging, several terms are now widely preferred by gerontologists, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups. The key is to use language that emphasizes personhood and avoids negative stereotypes.
- Older Adults/Older Persons: This is the most widely recommended alternative, emphasizing that individuals are still adults and part of the broader population, just older. It is a neutral, factual, and respectful descriptor.
- Seniors: While also debated by some, "seniors" is generally considered a better option than "elderly" and is often used by older individuals themselves. However, it can sometimes carry its own set of stereotypes.
- Specific Age Ranges: When relevant, using a specific age range is the most precise and accurate method. For example, instead of a generalizing about "the elderly," one can refer to "adults aged 75 to 84".
- Person-First Language: This approach centers the individual, not their age or condition. For example, instead of "an elderly person with dementia," a better phrasing is "a person with dementia".
Comparison of Terminology
| Term | Connotations | Why it's being phased out | Context | Preferred Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elderly | Frailty, decline, passivity, dependency | Seen as a stereotype that homogenizes a diverse group | Often used generically in media and policy; can be dismissive | Older adults, older people, persons over 65 |
| Seniors | Sometimes used positively for discounts, but can still feel condescending | Less negative than "elderly" but can still be vague and generalizing | Common in retail and marketing, but use is shifting | Older adults, older persons, people over 60 |
| Older Adults | Neutral, respectful, factual | Considered the current standard for inclusive language | Recommended by medical, psychological, and journalistic guidelines | N/A (this is the preferred term) |
| Aged | Negative, implying deterioration or decay | Explicitly discouraged by experts | Largely considered outdated and offensive | Older adults, older people |
The Impact of Ageist Language
Moving beyond the word "elderly" is more than just political correctness; it's about combating ageism, which has tangible and serious consequences. Ageism in language perpetuates harmful stereotypes that can negatively impact the health and well-being of older people. Research has shown that exposure to negative age stereotypes can lead to worse physical and mental health outcomes. This includes:
- Reduced quality of life
- Poorer physical function
- Lower self-esteem
- Reduced cognitive performance
By consciously choosing language that is respectful and inclusive, we can help reframe societal attitudes toward aging. This means viewing older adulthood not as a period of decline, but as a diverse stage of life characterized by continued growth, experience, and value. The effort to use precise, respectful, and value-free language is a crucial step toward creating a more equitable and supportive society for people of all ages.
Conclusion: Moving Toward Respectful Communication
When asked, "is the word 'elderly' ageist?" the consensus among experts and many older people themselves is yes. While often used without malicious intent, the term carries outdated and negative connotations that reinforce harmful stereotypes. Adopting inclusive language, such as "older adults," is a simple yet powerful way to promote respect, dignity, and a more accurate understanding of the aging process. As language evolves, so must our communication, creating a more inclusive dialogue that reflects the reality and diversity of the entire population.
Learn more about the impact of language on aging from authoritative sources such as the National Institute on Aging. This shift isn't about shaming, but rather about raising awareness and building a more compassionate society for everyone, at every stage of life.
