A History of Labels for People Over 55
For much of the 20th century, the term "senior citizen" was the most common and widely accepted label for people approaching or in retirement. It was frequently used in official contexts, such as for identifying recipients of senior discounts or government benefits. The term originated during a period when life expectancies were lower, and the retirement phase was viewed as a more uniform stage of life.
However, as generations aged, the perception of this phrase began to change. Many people came to feel that "senior citizen" sounded clinical, impersonal, and outdated. The shift was driven by a larger cultural movement that pushed back against ageism—the discrimination or prejudice based on a person's age. This led to a search for newer, more inclusive language that better reflects the vibrant, diverse reality of modern older adults.
Modern and Respectful Alternatives
Today, the most widely accepted and respectful terms are those that focus on the individual, not a broad, age-based category. Here are some of the best choices:
- Older Adults: This is one of the most broadly accepted and non-controversial terms. It is used by major media outlets and health organizations like the Associated Press and the National Institute on Aging because it is both neutral and respectful. It avoids the negative connotations that some feel are associated with older phrases.
- Mature Adults: A good alternative that emphasizes experience and maturity. This term is often favored in marketing and commercial settings, as it has a more positive, aspirational feel.
- Specific Age Range: When possible, referencing a specific age range can be the most accurate and clear approach. For example, instead of a general term, one can say "people in their 60s" or "individuals over 70." This avoids generalizations and provides precise information.
- Elders: While "elderly" is often considered negative, the term "elder" can be a sign of respect, especially in certain cultural contexts where it implies wisdom and revered status. However, its use should be considered carefully and with sensitivity to the individual's or community's preference.
Comparison of Common Terminology
| Term | Best Used In | Reason | Why to Be Cautious |
|---|---|---|---|
| Older Adults | Most general contexts: formal writing, academic papers, healthcare. | Widely accepted, neutral, and inclusive. | Does not convey specifics like age range or personal context. |
| Mature Adults | Marketing materials, business communication, casual settings. | Positive and affirming, emphasizes experience. | Can sound like a euphemism if not used thoughtfully. |
| Seniors | Situational; often for discounts, living communities. | Commonplace for specific services; widely understood. | Carries generational baggage; younger older adults may dislike it. |
| Elders | Specific cultural contexts, family conversations. | Can be a term of great respect and honor. | Using it outside of the right cultural context may seem presumptuous. |
The Language of Respect: Words to Retire
Just as important as knowing what to say is understanding what to avoid. Certain terms are often viewed as patronizing or ageist. Avoiding these words is a key part of showing respect.
- "The elderly": Grouping people into a single, faceless noun dehumanizes them. Instead of "the elderly," refer to "older people" or "older adults."
- "Senior citizen": While still used in some contexts, it can feel dated and institutional to many people today. Many younger older adults especially dislike this label.
- "Golden agers": This term is often considered a cutesy, condescending euphemism that simplifies a complex phase of life.
- Derogatory Slang: Terms like "geezer" or "old-timer" are dismissive and should be avoided in all professional and public communication.
The Importance of Individuality and Context
The best practice when addressing individuals is simply to use their name. If a group reference is necessary, consider the context and audience. For example, in a medical setting, a healthcare professional might use "older patients," while a financial advisor might discuss "retirees." The key is to see the person first, not their age.
For further reading on the importance of inclusive and respectful language in official communication, resources like the National Institute on Aging (NIA) offer valuable insights and guidelines on writing about aging in a non-biased manner.
Conclusion: How to Communicate Mindfully
In the end, the question of what to call people over 55 is less about finding a single, perfect term and more about adopting a mindset of respect and individuality. The best approach is to use neutral, person-first language and to avoid broad, stereotyped labels. By choosing our words carefully, we can help dismantle ageist stereotypes and foster a more inclusive, respectful society for all ages.
Key Takeaways for Communication
- Prioritize Individuality: Always refer to people by their names whenever possible, rather than using a blanket term based on age.
- Favor Neutral Terms: When a general reference is needed, "older adults" is a widely accepted and respectful choice.
- Mind the Context: Use specific terms like "retirees" or "people aged 60+," where appropriate for clarity and precision.
- Avoid Dated and Negative Language: Actively retire terms like "senior citizen," "the elderly," and any derogatory slang from your vocabulary.
- Consult Authoritative Sources: Organizations like the NIA and AP Stylebook offer up-to-date guidance on age-inclusive language.
