Understanding the Term 'Nonagenarian'
A person who is in their nineties, specifically between 90 and 99 years old, is called a nonagenarian. The word's origins can be traced to the Latin word nonaginta, which means 'ninety'. While the term is less common in everyday conversation, it is used in formal writing and by demographers and health professionals to refer to this specific age group. The use of such a distinct term reflects the significance of reaching such an advanced age, a milestone once considered far rarer than it is today.
The 'Arian' System: A Taxonomy of Age
The word 'nonagenarian' is part of a larger, fascinating system of labels for different decades of life, all rooted in Latin. Understanding this system provides context for the term and highlights the linguistic heritage behind the study of aging. While not all terms are widely used, they offer a precise way to classify different phases of a long life.
Here is a list of the most common 'arian' age classifications:
- Septuagenarian: A person in their 70s (ages 70-79).
- Octogenarian: A person in their 80s (ages 80-89).
- Nonagenarian: A person in their 90s (ages 90-99).
- Centenarian: A person who is 100 years old or older.
- Supercentenarian: A person who is 110 years old or older.
These terms illustrate how language has evolved to reflect increasing human longevity, with special designations for those who reach the most advanced ages.
The Unique Demographics of the 90+ Population
The number of people reaching their nineties is at an all-time high and is expected to continue growing significantly. This demographic shift is of great interest to sociologists and healthcare experts. The U.S. Census Bureau and the National Institute on Aging have provided extensive data on this population, revealing several unique characteristics.
- Female Majority: Women significantly outnumber men in the 90+ age group, with a ratio of nearly 3 to 1.
- Higher Education Levels: Compared to what might be expected for their birth cohort, a high proportion of people over 90 have completed high school or higher education.
- Varied Living Arrangements: While many older adults live in a household with family members, a significant portion of women live alone, and an increasing percentage of both genders reside in institutionalized settings like nursing homes with advancing age.
- Income Dependence: A large portion of the income for nonagenarians and beyond comes from Social Security and retirement pensions.
Health and Longevity in the Ninth Decade
Reaching the age of 90 is a remarkable feat of longevity, and research into this population reveals important insights into healthy aging. While most people in this age bracket report functional limitations, many maintain a positive outlook and adapt to changes.
- Resilience and Social Support: Studies have found that resilient personalities, high engagement, and strong social support systems are common traits among long-lived individuals.
- Delaying Disease: Research on supercentenarians indicates that many have managed to delay or escape major age-related diseases like cardiovascular issues and cancer until very late in life. This phenomenon suggests that genetic and environmental factors can play a crucial role in avoiding the most common causes of mortality in older age.
- Focus on Wellness: Lifestyle factors such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep are strongly correlated with reaching advanced age in relatively good health. For example, the New England Centenarian Study has highlighted these and other practices associated with exceptional longevity.
Comparison of Major 'Arian' Age Groups
| Feature | Octogenarian (80-89) | Nonagenarian (90-99) | Centenarian (100+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Range | 80 to 89 years old | 90 to 99 years old | 100 years or older |
| Commonality | More common than nonagenarians, but life expectancy is still considered long | A growing demographic, but a significant milestone in longevity | Relatively rare, but population is growing worldwide |
| Health Status | Increasing likelihood of chronic diseases; may have functional limitations | Higher probability of functional limitations and need for assistance; resilience is key | Demonstrates exceptional longevity, often delaying age-related diseases |
| Living Arrangements | Mixed; includes living independently, with family, or in care facilities | More likely to live alone or in institutional settings, especially women | Highest proportion living in institutional settings or with family for assistance |
| Focus | Often involves managing health conditions and planning for later life | Focuses on adapting to physical changes and maintaining independence and social ties | A focus on celebrating the achievement and potential unique genetic factors |
For more detailed information on the health and demographic characteristics of older Americans, an authoritative resource is the National Institute on Aging.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Name
While the simple answer to what are 90 year old people called is nonagenarian, the term represents far more than just a label. It signifies a person who has reached an extraordinary milestone in human life, part of a rapidly growing population of advanced-age individuals. The study of nonagenarians and other 'arian' groups is revealing crucial insights into what it takes to achieve exceptional longevity, emphasizing the importance of resilience, social connection, and preventative health measures. As our society continues to age, understanding these unique demographics and the terminology associated with them becomes increasingly important in shaping future healthcare and social policies.
