Why the Term "Senior Citizen" is Being Replaced
The term "senior citizen" originated in the 1930s to refer to older individuals receiving benefits, and it eventually became a common, albeit often patronizing, label. However, modern society has seen a significant shift away from this term for several reasons:
- Combating Ageism: Ageism, or prejudice and discrimination on the basis of age, has been shown to have serious negative implications for the health and well-being of older people. Terms like "senior citizen," "the elderly," and "aged" are seen as perpetuating harmful stereotypes by grouping a vast and diverse population into a single, often negatively connoted, category.
- Individuality and Diversity: The demographic of people over 65 is incredibly diverse, encompassing individuals who are still working, traveling, and actively contributing to society. A single blanket term fails to capture this individuality and vibrant life stage. As one study noted, older people often prefer inclusive labels that integrate them into society rather than setting them apart.
- Changing Demographics: People are living longer, healthier lives than when the term "senior citizen" was first coined. The average life expectancy has increased dramatically, and many individuals remain active and healthy well into their later years, making older terms seem out-of-touch.
The Preferred Alternatives to "Senior Citizen"
While no single term has universally replaced "senior citizen," several inclusive alternatives have gained traction and are recommended by authoritative sources like the Associated Press (AP) and the National Institute on Aging (NIA).
Recommended Terminology:
- Older adults / Older people / Older persons: This is the most widely endorsed and respected terminology. It is neutral, accurate, and avoids the negative baggage associated with older labels. The AP Stylebook, for instance, specifically recommends using "older adult" or "older people" over "senior citizens".
- Adults over age X: When more specificity is needed, referencing a particular age range is the most precise and respectful approach. For example, a study could refer to "people aged 75 to 84 years" instead of using a general term.
- Mature adults: While less common than "older adults," this term was viewed positively in a study on preferred titles among older Americans. It emphasizes experience and development rather than decline.
- Retiree: This term refers to a lifestyle choice rather than a chronological age and was also surprisingly well-received in surveys. However, not all older adults are retired, so its use is context-dependent.
Language to Avoid
Just as important as knowing which terms to use is understanding which ones to avoid. Many labels, while once common, are now considered dated, patronizing, or disrespectful. This is often due to their association with negative stereotypes.
Terms that perpetuate ageism include:
- The aged
- The elderly
- Elders (unless referencing specific, culturally appropriate contexts like American Indian/Alaska Native traditions)
- Geriatric (when used to describe a person, as it is a medical term)
- Golden ager
- Old-timer
Comparison of Aging Terminology
| Terminology | Connotations & Context | Recommended Use | Reason for Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Citizen | Outdated, can imply dependence and evoke negative stereotypes. | Avoid as a general descriptor. Only use if preferred by an individual or in a specific legal/commercial context (e.g., "senior discount"). | Shift toward respectful, inclusive language to combat ageism. |
| Older Adults / People | Neutral, accurate, inclusive, and avoids negative baggage. | Preferred for general, respectful communication in writing and speech. | Reflects the diverse and active nature of the older population. |
| The Elderly | Othering, negative connotations of frailty and decline. | Avoid universally. Focus on person-first language. | Creates a separate, often stigmatized, category rather than including older people within society. |
| Retiree | Describes a lifestyle status rather than age. | Use only if the person is retired and the context is relevant. | Recognizes that age does not define lifestyle choices or capabilities. |
| Specific Age Ranges | Highly specific and accurate, avoiding generalizations. | Use when possible to add detail and avoid broad labels (e.g., "adults aged 65-75"). | Promotes precision and respects the vast differences within the older population. |
The Role of Awareness and Respect
The move toward using terms like "older adults" is part of a larger conversation about respect and dignity. It reflects a societal shift to recognize the value and contributions of a growing, active, and diverse older population. In fact, the average life expectancy has increased so much that the language has simply not caught up with reality, where many people over 65 are still highly engaged and capable. The emphasis is now on seeing people as individuals first, rather than defining them by their age. Instead of focusing on decline, the new terminology promotes an understanding of aging as a normal, human experience.
Choosing our words thoughtfully is a simple but powerful way to challenge outdated attitudes and foster a more age-inclusive society. It's about acknowledging that chronological age is just one aspect of a person's identity, not their defining characteristic. This intentional choice of language can help combat ageist attitudes and stereotypes that persist in culture, media, and everyday speech. Ultimately, the best practice is to ask individuals what they prefer, as personal preference should always be respected.
National Institute on Aging: Don't call me “old”: Avoiding ageism when writing about aging
Conclusion
In summary, there is no one new name for senior citizens. Instead, the current trend is to replace the outdated term with more neutral, accurate, and respectful alternatives, with older adults being the most recommended option by health and journalistic authorities. This change is driven by a broader effort to combat ageism and recognize the diversity and individuality of the aging population. By consciously choosing more inclusive language, we can foster a more respectful and accurate public discourse about aging.
