Understanding and Avoiding Ageist Terms: What ageist terms to avoid?

Research consistently shows that language plays a critical role in shaping perceptions and reinforcing stereotypes. Understanding what ageist terms to avoid is essential for fostering a more inclusive society that respects and values individuals of all ages.

Quick Summary

Promoting respect and inclusion for older adults requires eliminating language that diminishes, stereotypes, or infantilizes them, such as 'geezer,' 'sweet old lady,' or 'senile.' Opt instead for person-first language like 'older person' or 'person with dementia,' emphasizing individuality and worth.

Key Points

• Infantilizing Terms: Avoid condescending pet names like "dearie" and dismissive phrases like "sweet old lady," which strip older adults of their dignity and individuality.

• Stereotypical Generalizations: Refrain from using collective, homogenizing terms like "the elderly" or "senior citizen," which erase the vast diversity within the older adult population.

• Inaccurate Language: Stop using words like "senile" or "over the hill" that inaccurately describe cognitive changes or unfairly characterize older adults as being in decline.

• Use Person-First Language: Prioritize person-centered communication by referring to individuals (e.g., "an older person") rather than a group, respecting their identity beyond their age.

• Avoid Assumptions: Challenge your own biases by not assuming older adults have specific health issues, technological struggles, or an inability to keep up with modern life.

• Promote Respectful Alternatives: Actively replace ageist language with respectful alternatives and communicate in a way that recognizes the valuable experience and individuality of older people.

The Problem with Ageist Language

Ageism, or discrimination based on age, is pervasive and often subtle, appearing in the very words we use. While we have become more aware of the harms of other forms of discrimination, ageist language often goes unchallenged. It reinforces negative stereotypes, devalues the contributions of older people, and can negatively impact their mental and physical health. By learning what ageist terms to avoid, we can begin to shift our communication towards a more respectful and equitable standard.

Common Ageist Terms to Avoid

Certain phrases and words, while seemingly harmless to some, carry deeply ingrained negative connotations. Moving away from these terms is a critical step toward respectful communication.

Terms that Infantilize

• "Dearie" or "sweetie": Using pet names for older adults is condescending and strips them of their dignity. It implies they are child-like and incapable.
• "Sweet old lady" or "little old man": These phrases diminish a person's life experience and individuality, reducing them to a cute, non-threatening stereotype.

Terms that Generalize and Stereotype

• "The elderly": This collective term lumps all older adults into a single, monolithic group, ignoring the vast diversity of experiences, health, and abilities among them.
• "Senior citizen": While widely used, this term can feel outdated and carries a connotation of being a special class of people rather than simply individuals of a certain age.
• "Over the hill": This phrase suggests that a person's life peaked at a younger age and is now in decline, erasing the value and potential of later life.

Terms that Imply Incompetence or Irrelevance

• "Senile" or "out of touch": These words are often used dismissively to characterize forgetfulness or a difference in perspective. They are medically inaccurate and contribute to the stigma around cognitive changes.
• "Doesn't get it" or "can't keep up": Such statements invalidate an older person's perspective and imply that their knowledge or experience is no longer relevant in a modern world.

Respectful Alternatives and Communication Strategies

Simply knowing what not to say is only half the battle. Learning how to communicate respectfully is a proactive process that requires intentional effort. The best approach is to use person-centered language, emphasizing the individual rather than their age.

1. Use Person-First Language: Instead of "the elderly," say "older adults" or, even better, specify the person's age group if relevant, such as "people in their 70s." When discussing health, say "a person with dementia" rather than "a senile person."
2. Refer to Individuals, Not Groups: Use specific names and refer to people as individuals. For example, instead of "the seniors at the center," say "the attendees at the community center."
3. Avoid Assumptions: Never assume an older person is hard of hearing, technologically inept, or has memory issues. Treat them as you would anyone else, with respect and patience.
4. Listen Actively: Engage in conversations by truly listening to what the person has to say. Value their stories and opinions, which often come with a lifetime of experience.

Comparison of Ageist vs. Respectful Language

Ageist Term to Avoid	Respectful Alternative to Use
"She's still driving?"	"How is she getting around these days?"
"He's so good for his age."	"He is in great shape."
"Little old lady"	"That woman" or using her name
"The elderly population"	"Older adults" or "People over 65"
"Geezer"	Individual's name or "That gentleman"
"Senior moments"	"I'm having a memory lapse."

The Impact of Ageism

Ageist language and attitudes have profound consequences. They can lead to:

• Lower Self-Esteem: Internalizing negative stereotypes can cause older adults to feel less valuable and capable.
• Health Disparities: Studies show that internalized ageism can be linked to worse health outcomes, including cardiovascular events and decreased longevity.
• Social Isolation: Ageist attitudes can cause younger people to avoid meaningful interactions with older adults, leading to isolation and loneliness.
• Discrimination: Ageist language can perpetuate biases in healthcare, employment, and social policy.

For more information on combating ageism and promoting positive communication, resources like the World Health Organization's report on ageism provide valuable insights Learn more about combating ageism here. This resource is a crucial step towards understanding the global fight against age-based prejudice.

Conclusion

Becoming mindful of what ageist terms to avoid is an important act of respect and social responsibility. Our language shapes our reality, and by choosing words that honor and respect older adults, we contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic world for everyone. Replacing tired, ageist stereotypes with person-centered, dignified language is a powerful way to recognize the full humanity and rich life experience of older individuals. It benefits not only older adults but also society as a whole by dismantling prejudice and building stronger, more connected communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is 'the elderly' considered an ageist term?

Using 'the elderly' lumps a diverse group of people into a single, often negative, category. It homogenizes their experiences and ignores their individual personalities, strengths, and stories. The term can imply frailty or decline, which does not apply to all older adults.

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

While 'senior citizen' has been widely used, many older adults find it outdated and demeaning. Some consider it a bureaucratic term that suggests a person's identity is defined solely by their age-based benefits. 'Older adults' or 'people over 65' are often preferred alternatives that focus on the individual.

What's the best way to correct someone who uses ageist language?

Address it gently and privately if possible. You can say, 'I've been learning about the impact of language on aging, and I've found that using 'older adults' instead of 'the elderly' is more respectful. Just a thought!' This approach educates rather than shames.

Are terms like 'young at heart' ageist?

This phrase can be ageist because it implies that being 'young' is the ideal and that an older person's positive attributes are notable because they defy their age. It reinforces the idea that aging is inherently negative and that youthfulness is a positive exception.

How should I talk to older adults with respect?

The key is to use person-centered language. Speak to them as you would any other adult, using their name and engaging in meaningful conversation. Avoid speaking down to them, using a higher pitch, or assuming they need help. Respect their independence and experiences.

Is it ageist to say someone is 'doing well for their age'?

Yes, this phrase can be subtly ageist. It sets a lower expectation for older adults and implies that their accomplishments are surprising or exceptional due to their age. It's better to simply praise their achievement without reference to their age.

How can I avoid infantilizing language?

The best way to avoid infantilizing language is to treat older adults as mature, capable individuals. Refrain from using terms of endearment like 'honey' or 'sweetie,' and don't make assumptions about their abilities. Speak to them directly and with respect for their agency.