Deciphering the Formal Term: Sexagenarian
As people age, different terms come into play to describe their decade of life. The formal term for a person between the ages of 60 and 69 is a sexagenarian. Derived from the Latin word sexagēnārius, meaning “containing sixty,” this word is one of a series of decade-based labels that are more often encountered in formal writing than in daily speech.
- Sexagenarian: 60–69 years old
- Septuagenarian: 70–79 years old
- Octogenarian: 80–89 years old
- Nonagenarian: 90–99 years old
- Centenarian: 100–109 years old
While these terms exist, they are not used uniformly. In fact, sexagenarian is used less frequently than some of its older counterparts, like septuagenarian and octogenarian, which have gained more traction in common parlance.
Generational Labels vs. Decade-Based Terms
For many 60-year-olds today, the term 'Baby Boomer' is a more common and recognized label than 'sexagenarian.' The Baby Boomer generation includes those born between 1946 and 1964, so a 60-year-old would fall within this group, particularly the 'trailing edge' of the generation. It’s crucial to understand the difference between these two types of labels:
- Generational Cohorts: Defined by shared historical events, cultural milestones, and social experiences. Baby Boomers were shaped by post-World War II prosperity, the Cold War, and the rise of counterculture.
- Decade-Based Terms: Simple, linguistic labels based purely on a person's age decade. They do not convey the same cultural or historical context as generational names.
Modern and Age-Inclusive Language
Many adults in this age bracket dislike being labeled simply by their age, as it can feel dismissive or stereotyping. This has led to a push for more respectful, age-inclusive language. Organizations like the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association now recommend using phrases like "older adults" or "older individuals" instead of terms that can be perceived as "othering".
Here’s a comparison of different terms and their implications:
| Term | Connotation | Usage Context | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sexagenarian | Formal, technical, literary | Often in formal or medical writing | Use with care; can sound stuffy or clinical. |
| Baby Boomer | Generational identity | Common, but can be inaccurate or stereotypical for individuals | Understand the birth year range (1946-1964); use respectfully. |
| Older Adult | Neutral, respectful, person-first | Preferred in medical and academic contexts | Most universally accepted and respectful term. |
| Senior Citizen | Outdated, often carries negative stereotypes | Still widely used, but increasingly discouraged | Avoid if possible; consider alternatives. |
Healthy Aging and the 60+ Demographic
With increased life expectancy, many people in their 60s and beyond lead active, vibrant lives, far different from the stereotypes often associated with aging. Modern terminology is catching up to this reality, emphasizing that this stage of life is not a decline, but a new chapter. Focusing on health, wellness, and continued engagement is a much more productive way to view this demographic.
Key aspects of healthy aging include:
- Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity.
- Staying socially connected through hobbies, volunteering, and family.
- Focusing on mental and cognitive health with lifelong learning or puzzles.
- Managing chronic conditions and prioritizing preventive care through regular check-ups.
- Planning for the future, including retirement and legacy planning.
Conclusion: Navigating Respectful Terminology
While the answer to "what are 60 year olds referred to as" is technically sexagenarian, the broader context is far more important. A person is not simply a label. Whether you are addressing an individual or writing for a wider audience, opting for respectful and person-first language like "older adult" is often the best choice. Understanding the different layers of terminology—from formal Latin roots to modern generational labels—provides valuable insight into how we view and speak about aging in contemporary society. The language we use can either perpetuate negative stereotypes or reflect the dignity and individuality of every person, no matter their age. For further insight into age-inclusive communication, read more from the National Institute on Aging at nia.nih.gov.
