Understanding the Term 'Septuagenarian'
The most precise and formal answer to the question, "What is a 70 year old man called?" is a septuagenarian. This term applies to any person between the ages of 70 and 79, inclusive. Rooted in Latin, these "arian" decade names have fallen out of common use, but they still exist in formal contexts and are a testament to our history of categorizing age. Other examples include a sexagenarian (60-69) and an octogenarian (80-89).
While knowing the formal term is useful, it is not often used in casual conversation. In fact, many older adults find these clinical labels impersonal. In day-to-day life, the best approach is to use the respectful terminology that the individual prefers. Personalizing your language shows respect and builds better rapport than relying on broad, and sometimes outdated, generalizations.
Moving Beyond Formal Labels: Modern Etiquette
Modern etiquette emphasizes respect and avoiding ageist language. Terms like "elderly" and "senior citizen" are functional for programs and benefits, but they can carry negative connotations and should be used with care in personal interactions. The most respectful approach is to address a 70-year-old man by his name, preceded by an appropriate title such as "Mr." or his professional title, until invited to use a less formal address. This shows courtesy and acknowledges his individuality beyond his age.
- Use respectful language: Avoid condescending or overly familiar terms like "dear" or "sweetie," which can be perceived as patronizing.
- Prioritize their preference: The best and most respectful term is the one the individual himself prefers. If in doubt, ask them how they prefer to be addressed.
- Consider the setting: In a professional or formal setting, titles and last names are standard. In a casual, family setting, his relationship to you (Grandpa, Uncle) is often the most appropriate.
The Societal Context of Aging
The way society labels and perceives older adults has shifted considerably over time. A century ago, the primary division was simply "child" and "adult". Now, we have more nuanced categories, driven in part by evolving social norms, medicine, and marketing. This evolution has also led to more sensitive discussions about ageism—prejudice or discrimination based on a person's age.
Modern society's understanding of aging recognizes that a person's 70s can be a vibrant, active, and productive stage of life, far from the outdated stereotype of frailty. This shift in perspective is reflected in the move away from broadly applied labels towards more individualized language. For example, some people in their 70s still work, travel, and start new ventures. Their biological age often does not align with outdated societal expectations.
A Comparative Look at Aging Terminology
Understanding the various ways we talk about age can highlight the need for careful word choice. Below is a comparison of different terminologies and their common uses.
| Term | Formal Definition/Use | Common Perception/Connotation |
|---|---|---|
| Septuagenarian | A person between 70 and 79 years old. | Formal, clinical, often perceived as outdated. |
| Senior Citizen | An older adult, often defined by eligibility for discounts or benefits. | Widespread, functional, but can carry some negative or patronizing baggage in personal conversation. |
| Older Adult | A neutral, respectful term often used in medical and academic contexts. | Widely accepted as a polite and non-ageist alternative to "elderly." |
| Elderly | A person of advanced age, typically used in medical or care settings. | Often associated with frailty or decline; can be seen as disrespectful outside of specific contexts. |
| Their Name (e.g., Mr. Smith) | The default polite form of address for an adult. | Most respectful and personalized option. |
The Benefits and Pitfalls of Labels
Labels for age groups exist for a reason. They provide a common framework for health care, government benefits, and social programs. Medicare eligibility, for instance, is largely based on chronological age, with 65 being the key benchmark in the U.S. However, the same labels can be limiting and disrespectful in individual interactions.
Benefits of age labels:
- Program Eligibility: Simplifies access to benefits like Medicare and Social Security.
- Data and Research: Allows for demographic analysis and targeted studies in fields like medicine and sociology.
- Societal Planning: Helps in planning for resources related to aging populations.
Pitfalls of age labels:
- Promotes Stereotypes: Can reinforce negative ideas about what a person can or should be doing at a certain age.
- Impersonal: Can make a person feel like a category rather than an individual.
- Ageist Language: Some terms, like "elderly," can be inherently ageist when used carelessly outside of clinical settings.
For a deeper dive into the importance of mindful language in aging, consider reading about Reframing Aging, an initiative dedicated to shifting perceptions of later life. This movement champions a change in mindset, emphasizing that older people are at the peak of their experience and can contribute significantly to society.
Conclusion: Choosing Respect Over Labels
While a 70-year-old man can technically be called a septuagenarian, this is a formal and often outdated term. For personal interactions, the best practice is to prioritize respect and individuality. Using titles like "Mr." and waiting for permission to use a first name is a safe and courteous approach. Beyond terminology, engaging with older adults as capable individuals with valuable experience helps challenge negative age-related stereotypes and fosters more meaningful connections. Ultimately, the question isn't about finding the perfect label, but about communicating with dignity and consideration.
