What Do Seniors Want to Be Called? Navigating Respectful Terminology

According to a study by The Senior List, only a small percentage of older adults prefer traditional labels like “senior,” with most favoring more inclusive and respectful terminology. Knowing what do seniors want to be called? is a crucial step toward respectful, age-inclusive communication and combating ingrained ageism.

Quick Summary

The most respectful approach is to use neutral and inclusive terms like 'older adult' or a person's name, as preferences vary significantly and many traditional labels carry negative connotations. The best practice involves considering context, avoiding stereotypes, and prioritizing individual comfort.

Key Points

• Older Adult is Often Best: When unsure, use 'older adult,' a neutral and inclusive term preferred by many individuals and major organizations.

• Individual Preferences Vary: No single term is universally accepted. The most respectful approach is to ask an individual their preference or follow their lead.

• Avoid Outdated Labels: Terms like 'elderly' and 'the aged' are often viewed as stigmatizing and should be avoided in general conversation.

• Practice Person-First Language: Frame your communication around the individual's name, character, and achievements, not their age group.

• Recognize Cultural Context: Understand that terms like 'elder' hold specific, respectful meanings in certain cultures and are not for general use.

• Combat Ageism: Your choice of language plays a direct role in either reinforcing or combating age-based stereotypes and promoting dignity.

The Shifting Landscape of Terminology

For decades, terms like “senior” and “senior citizen” were the standard, but perceptions have evolved dramatically. What was once considered a neutral descriptor now feels outdated and, for many, dismissive. As society moves toward more person-centered language, the focus has shifted to terms that emphasize an individual's autonomy and experience, rather than their age group. This change reflects a broader cultural movement to combat ageism, the stereotyping and discrimination against individuals or groups on the basis of age, which has been linked to poorer health outcomes in older people.

Why Terminology Matters

The language we use directly impacts how we perceive and interact with older adults. Using infantilizing or derogatory terms, even unintentionally, can reinforce negative stereotypes and diminish a person's self-worth. Conversely, adopting respectful and neutral language helps foster an environment of dignity and inclusion. This isn't about being 'politically correct,' but about practicing genuine respect for individuals who have a vast range of experiences, abilities, and identities. This is why addressing the question of what do seniors want to be called? is an important step towards better communication.

Inclusive and Preferred Terms

In the absence of an individual's specific preference, several terms are now widely recommended by major health and journalism organizations for their neutral and inclusive nature. These include:

• Older Adults: This is a leading choice by organizations like the National Institute on Aging (NIA) and the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, as it is neutral and avoids stereotyping.
• Mature Adults: This term can be a positive alternative, emphasizing experience and wisdom rather than simply age.
• A Person's Name: When possible and appropriate, using an individual's first name or their preferred title (Mr., Ms., Mrs.) is the most direct and respectful approach.
• By Age Range: For specific contexts, such as medical studies or demographic analysis, defining a group by age range (e.g., “people aged 75 and older”) is clear and precise.

Terms to Use with Caution or Avoid

While intentions may be good, some terms are now considered problematic or simply out of step with current preferences. Understanding these helps prevent unintentional offense.

Comparison of Terminology

Term	Best Use	Notes & Cautions
Older Adult	General reference in writing and conversation.	Broadly preferred by experts and many older individuals. Inclusive and neutral.
Senior / Senior Citizen	In specific contexts where the term is understood and accepted (e.g., 'senior discount').	Many find these terms outdated or alienating. Use with care.
Elderly	Avoid entirely in general use.	Highly stigmatized and often associated with frailty and dependency. Use only if requested by an individual.
The Aged	Avoid entirely.	Dehumanizing and groups a diverse population into a single, sterile category.
Elder	Respectful term in certain cultural contexts (e.g., American Indian/Alaska Natives).	Avoid for general use to prevent misappropriation.

How to Ask Respectfully

Finding the right term is often a matter of direct, respectful communication. If you are unsure, follow these steps:

1. Start with the person's name. Unless in a professional setting where a title is needed, starting with their name is the most respectful default. This is especially true for those you know personally.
2. Observe their language. Pay attention to the language they and their close family or friends use. If they refer to themselves as a "senior," that is likely acceptable for you to use in conversation as well.
3. Ask privately and directly. If you have a close relationship, a simple and private question can clarify things. For example: "I want to be respectful, so what term do you prefer to use?" or "Do you prefer I call you by your first name or a title?"
4. Use specific descriptors when necessary. If you need to refer to a group, using phrases like “people over 65” or “individuals in their eighties” is clear and less likely to cause offense than a broad, potentially loaded term.
5. Acknowledge and learn. If someone corrects your language, simply thank them for the information and make a conscious effort to use their preferred term in the future.

Conclusion: A Shift Towards Person-First Language

The core of answering the question, what do seniors want to be called?, is understanding that there is no universal right answer. It’s about a shift away from broad, stereotypical labels and toward person-first, respectful communication. The best policy is to follow a person's lead, use inclusive terms like "older adult" by default, and always prioritize individual dignity and preference. By being mindful of our language, we can foster more positive and respectful interactions that honor the complexity and individuality of each person, regardless of their age.

Visit the National Institute on Aging for more guidance on age-inclusive language.

Key Communication Tips for Healthy Aging & Senior Care

• Prioritize Individual Preference: Always ask a person how they prefer to be addressed if you are unsure.
• Embrace Inclusive Language: Default to neutral terms like 'older adult' or 'older person' in general conversation and writing.
• Avoid Stereotypical Labels: Understand that terms like 'elderly' can carry negative, ageist connotations and are best avoided.
• Listen and Adapt: Pay attention to the language an individual uses to describe themselves and follow their lead.
• Focus on the Person: Emphasize their role, expertise, or interests, rather than focusing on their age.
• Consider Context: Recognize that different situations (e.g., casual conversation vs. formal writing) may call for different levels of specificity or formality.

Frequently Asked Questions

• question: Is it okay to use the term 'senior citizen'?

• answer: While once common, many people now find 'senior citizen' outdated and prefer other terms like 'older adult.' It's best to observe an individual's preference or use a more inclusive term if you are unsure.

• question: What is ageism in language?

• answer: Ageism in language refers to words or phrases that perpetuate negative stereotypes about a person's age. This includes using infantilizing terms or automatically assuming a person has hearing loss.

• question: How should I address an older person I don't know professionally?

• answer: Use respectful, neutral language. For a first interaction, it's appropriate to address them as Mr., Ms., or by their full name, depending on the formality of the setting. If they indicate a preference for their first name, you can adjust accordingly.

• question: What if someone refers to themselves as a 'senior'?

• answer: If an individual uses a term like 'senior' to describe themselves, it's generally acceptable to use it in conversation with them. The key is to follow their lead and respect their self-identification.

• question: Why is 'elderly' considered disrespectful to some?

• answer: 'Elderly' is often perceived negatively because it can imply frailty, dependence, and poor health. It groups a diverse population into a single, often problematic, category.

• question: Are there cultural differences in how older people want to be called?

• answer: Yes, definitely. In some cultures, particularly some Native American/Alaska Native communities, 'elder' is a term of high respect. It's important to be sensitive to these cultural nuances.

• question: What's the best way to avoid being condescending when talking to an older adult?

• answer: Avoid patronizing language like 'honey' or speaking in a slow, loud voice. Instead, speak clearly and at a normal volume, engage in genuine conversation, and show respect for their intelligence and life experience.

• question: Should I use 'senior discount' language for marketing?

• answer: While widely used, consider alternative wording like 'age-based discount' or 'discount for those over 65' to align with more inclusive language and avoid alienating those who dislike the term 'senior.'

Frequently Asked Questions

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

While once common, many people now find 'senior citizen' outdated and prefer other terms like 'older adult.' It's best to observe an individual's preference or use a more inclusive term if you are unsure.

What is ageism in language?

Ageism in language refers to words or phrases that perpetuate negative stereotypes about a person's age. This includes using infantilizing terms or automatically assuming a person has hearing loss based on their age.

How should I address an older person I don't know professionally?

Use respectful, neutral language. For a first interaction, it's appropriate to address them as Mr., Ms., or by their full name, depending on the formality of the setting. If they indicate a preference for their first name, you can adjust accordingly.

What if someone refers to themselves as a 'senior'?

If an individual uses a term like 'senior' to describe themselves, it's generally acceptable to use it in conversation with them. The key is to follow their lead and respect their self-identification.

Why is 'elderly' considered disrespectful to some?

'Elderly' is often perceived negatively because it can imply frailty, dependence, and poor health. It groups a diverse population into a single, often problematic, category rather than respecting individual differences.

Are there cultural differences in how older people want to be called?

Yes, absolutely. In some cultures, particularly some American Indian/Alaska Native communities, 'elder' is a term of high respect. It's important to be sensitive to these cultural nuances and use the term only when appropriate.

What's the best way to avoid being condescending when talking to an older adult?

Avoid patronizing language like 'honey' or 'sweetie,' and don't automatically speak in a slow, loud voice. Instead, speak clearly and at a normal volume, engage in genuine conversation, and show respect for their intelligence and life experience.

Should I use 'senior discount' language for marketing?

While 'senior discount' is widely used and understood, consider alternative wording like 'age-based discount' or 'discount for those over 65' to align with more inclusive language and avoid alienating those who dislike the term 'senior.'