What are over 60s called? A Guide to Respectful Terminology

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population aged 65 and over is projected to grow significantly, making conversations about aging more relevant than ever. In this context, it's important to know the appropriate and respectful answers to what are over 60s called.

Quick Summary

People in their 60s (60–69) are formally called sexagenarians, but the most widely accepted and respectful terms in general use today are "older adults" or "older people," rather than the potentially outdated or disliked terms like "senior citizens" or "the elderly."

Key Points

• Sexagenarian: This is the formal, Latin-based term for someone aged 60-69, though it's rarely used in casual conversation.

• Older Adults: Modern professional guidelines recommend this as the most respectful, neutral, and inclusive term for describing people over 60.

• Outdated Terms: Many older individuals dislike being called "seniors," "senior citizens," or "the elderly," as these terms are often considered stereotyping and outdated.

• Combating Ageism: Using thoughtful, person-first language is crucial for challenging negative stereotypes and promoting respect for the diversity within the aging population.

• Best Practice: In most situations, it's best to use neutral language like "older adults" or, even better, simply refer to a person by their name.

• Contextual Sensitivity: The most appropriate term depends on the context; what's suitable for a legal document may differ from casual conversation.

The Formal Term: Sexagenarian

For those curious about the precise, classical term for someone in their sixties, the answer is a 'sexagenarian'. This formal word is rooted in Latin, where sexāgēnārius means 'sixty each.' While it's a correct and sometimes used descriptor, it's not common in everyday conversation. You might encounter it in formal writing or in historical contexts, but it rarely appears in contemporary speech when discussing an individual or a group.

The Latin-Based Age Descriptors

The pattern of naming age decades with Latin-based terms continues for other age groups as well, offering an interesting glimpse into etymology. While you may not use these daily, understanding them provides context for the more common terms.

• Septuagenarian: A person in their 70s (70-79)
• Octogenarian: A person in their 80s (80-89)
• Nonagenarian: A person in their 90s (90-99)
• Centenarian: A person who is 100 or older

The Evolving Landscape of Common Terms

Modern preferences have shifted away from older, often stigmatized terms toward more neutral and respectful language. This movement is driven by a desire to reduce ageism and recognize the diversity within the aging population. What is considered appropriate and polite has changed considerably over time.

Why "Seniors" and "Senior Citizens" are Changing

Terms like "seniors" and "senior citizens" gained traction in the mid-20th century, often associated with eligibility for discounts and government programs. However, these labels are now frequently viewed as outdated or carrying negative connotations, suggesting frailty or a homogenous group identity that doesn't reflect the reality of today's older adults.

The Rise of "Older Adults"

Professional organizations, including the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association, now recommend using "older adults" or "older people". This shift is part of a broader effort to use person-first language and avoid "othering" individuals based on their age. The phrase "older adults" is neutral, inclusive, and avoids the stereotypes some find offensive. It also recognizes the vast differences between, for example, a newly retired 62-year-old and a 95-year-old requiring specialized care.

Combating Ageism with Respectful Language

Choosing the right language is a powerful way to combat ageism—discrimination or stereotyping based on age. Negative stereotypes often portray older people as frail, dependent, or technologically inept, which is often far from the truth. Using respectful terminology is a key part of challenging these biases and fostering a more inclusive society. An authoritative resource on this topic is the National Institute on Aging's blog post on avoiding ageist language.

What to Avoid

Certain terms, though once common, are now considered rude or insensitive. It's best to avoid general labels like "the elderly" or "the aged." Even phrases like "aging well" or "successful aging" can be problematic as they imply a wrong way to age. Similarly, calling a person over 60 a "boomer" should be used with care, as it's a generational term for those born between 1946 and 1964 and may not apply to an individual's specific age or preferences.

A Comparison of Common Terms for People Over 60

Term	Connotation	Context
Sexagenarian	Formal, precise	Formal writing, academic discussion, historical context.
Older Adults	Neutral, respectful, inclusive	General use in media, healthcare, and formal communication.
Seniors / Senior Citizens	Dated, can be stereotyping	Common in business (e.g., discounts) but often disliked by individuals.
The Elderly	Negative, implying frailty	Avoid in all contexts. Widely considered offensive.
Baby Boomers	Specific generational term	Refers to a cohort born between 1946-1964; not all over 60s.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Words

The way we refer to people over 60 has evolved significantly, reflecting a greater awareness of ageism and the importance of person-first language. While the formal term is 'sexagenarian' for those in their sixties, the most appropriate and respectful language today typically involves using neutral terms like "older adults" or simply addressing individuals by their name. Understanding these distinctions helps foster a more inclusive and respectful environment for people of all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it rude to use the term "senior citizen"?

While not always intentionally rude, many older adults find the term "senior citizen" to be outdated and stereotyping. Modern guidelines from health organizations advise using neutral terms like "older adults" instead, as they are more respectful.

What is the formal word for someone who is over 70?

A person in their 70s (70-79) is formally called a septuagenarian. The pattern continues with octogenarian (80s), nonagenarian (90s), and centenarian (100s).

Why are terms like "older adults" preferred?

Terms like "older adults" are preferred because they are inclusive, neutral, and focus on the individual rather than a potentially stigmatizing group label. This approach helps to combat ageism and respects the wide diversity of experiences among people over 60.

Do all people over 60 dislike being called "seniors"?

Preferences vary, and while some individuals may not mind, research indicates that many older people dislike being broadly categorized as "seniors" or "the elderly". The safest approach is to use a person's name or a neutral descriptor.

What are over 60s called legally or in official documents?

In legal or official contexts, precise age ranges are typically used. For example, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects individuals "40 years of age and older," but specifies ranges where necessary for benefits or programs.

Is it okay to refer to people over 60 as "Boomers"?

Referring to someone over 60 as a "Boomer" is not always accurate or appropriate. The Baby Boomer generation is a specific cohort born between 1946 and 1964, so not all people over 60 fall into this category. It's also often used with a negative or dismissive tone.

What is the origin of the term "sexagenarian"?

The term "sexagenarian" comes from the Latin word sexāgēnārius, which means "containing sixty" or "sixty years old." It is part of a series of Latin-derived words used to describe people in different decades of life.