The Shift from 'Senior Citizen'
The term "senior citizen" originated in the 1930s to describe individuals eligible for federal benefits like Social Security. While once considered a respectful designation, a 2021 study revealed that it was preferred by only a small percentage of older adults, with many finding it out-of-touch or carrying a stigma of charity. This reflects a broader societal push toward age-inclusive language that recognizes the diverse and active lives of people over 65. The Associated Press (AP) and American Medical Association (AMA), among other organizations, have issued style guides that favor alternative terminology, encouraging more specific and person-centered descriptions.
Why Terminology is Important
The words used to describe older people can have a profound impact on how they are perceived and treated. Using respectful and appropriate language helps combat ageism, which is discrimination based on age. In many non-Western cultures, and even among many American Indigenous communities, terms like "elder" are still used to convey deep respect for wisdom and experience. Modern language aims to capture this sense of respect without making broad, stereotypical assumptions.
- Avoid Infantilizing Language: Words like "sweet old lady" or referring to adults as "cute" are condescending and disrespectful.
- Use Person-First Language: As with other demographic groups, it's better to put the person before their age, such as "people over 65" rather than "the elderly".
- Consider Context: The appropriate term can change depending on the context, from a casual conversation to a legal document.
A Comparison of Terms for Older Adults
The choice of words can vary significantly in tone and appropriateness. Here is a comparison of some common terms.
| Term | Connotation | Context | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Citizen | Outdated, often tied to discounts or benefits | Commercial, formal (especially older contexts) | Many older adults dislike this term, seeing it as a relic of a past era. |
| Older Adults | Neutral, respectful, inclusive | Medical, academic, and journalistic writing | Widely recommended by organizations like the AMA, AP, and NIA. |
| Mature Adults | Positive, focused on experience | Marketing, general conversation | Focuses on a life stage rather than specific age. |
| The Elderly | Generally disliked, carries connotations of frailty | Informal, sometimes used in headlines | Avoid in most professional or respectful contexts. |
| Elders | Respected, wise, and experienced | Cultural, familial, or spiritual context | Appropriate in many cultures but requires careful consideration of context. |
| Retiree | Neutral, based on a life stage | Work-related, financial discussions | Lifestyle-based rather than age-based, which can be less alienating. |
Formal and Neutral Terms
In professional writing or formal documents, precision and neutrality are key. The American Psychological Association (APA) and the Associated Press (AP) recommend specific and neutral language.
- Older Adults/Older People: These are the most universally accepted and recommended terms for general reference.
- Individuals Aged 65 and Older: Provides clarity by specifying a precise age range, which is particularly useful in research and legal documents.
- Older Individual: This is a direct and respectful term often used in US federal code and other legal contexts to define eligibility for benefits or protections.
Positive and Respectful Alternatives
For general conversation, positive terms can reflect a person's life experience and ongoing contributions. The move toward these alternatives acknowledges that older age is not defined solely by retirement or physical decline.
- Seasoned Citizens: Suggests a depth of experience and wisdom.
- Golden Agers: An older term, but still used sometimes to refer positively to the "golden years" of retirement.
- Active Adults: Describes a lifestyle rather than an age bracket, focusing on continued engagement and health.
Contextual Considerations
The best term to use often depends on the specific context and the individual. For example, a business may use "senior discount," while a healthcare professional would use "older adult". Many older people prefer not to be labeled at all and simply be referred to as "people". The best practice is to always consider the individual and their preference, and when in doubt, default to neutral, person-first language.
The Importance of Specificity
As noted in geriatric studies, using sub-groupings can be more accurate than broad labels. The experiences of a 60-year-old are vastly different from those of a 90-year-old. When possible, using a specific age range can be the most accurate and respectful option.
Conclusion
While "senior citizen" remains a widely recognized term, particularly in commercial contexts, evolving social norms have led to a preference for more respectful and inclusive language. The shift towards terms like "older adults" and "mature adults" reflects a move away from ageist stereotypes and acknowledges the diversity and continued vitality of the aging population. By being mindful of our word choices, we can foster a more respectful and accurate conversation about aging. Ultimately, the most respectful approach is to consider individual preferences, and when a collective term is necessary, to opt for neutral and person-first language that celebrates a lifetime of experience. For more information on inclusive language, the National Institute on Aging offers excellent resources on avoiding age bias in communication.
A Checklist for Choosing the Right Term
- For formal writing: Use "older adults," "older people," or specify an age range.
- In a commercial setting: "Senior discount" is still common and generally understood.
- For informal conversation: Follow the individual's lead. If they prefer "senior," use it. If not, opt for more neutral language.
- In academic or medical contexts: Rely on guidelines from professional organizations like the AMA, APA, or NIA.
- To show respect for experience: "Elders" can be appropriate in certain cultural or organizational settings.
This deliberate and thoughtful approach ensures that language reflects the dignity and value of all individuals, regardless of age.
A Final Consideration
Language is not static, and as societal attitudes toward aging continue to change, so will the preferred vocabulary. Staying informed and open to feedback is the most effective way to communicate respectfully. The conversation around what we call older individuals highlights a broader cultural shift towards appreciating and understanding the nuances of the aging process, moving beyond simple, dated labels.
Note: The use of the outbound link is to provide further, authoritative reading on the topic from a reputable source.
National Institute on Aging: Avoiding ageism when writing about aging.
