The Problem with the Word "Elderly"
The term "elderly" has fallen out of favor in modern usage for several important reasons. Firstly, it's a broad, vague term that fails to account for the diversity within the older population. A healthy, active 65-year-old has a very different life experience from a frail 90-year-old, yet the single label "elderly" lumps them together. This homogenization can perpetuate a stereotype that all older people are frail, dependent, or in decline. Research has shown that such ageist language can harm the mental and physical well-being of older adults.
Another major issue is the negative baggage associated with the word. Over time, "elderly" has been linked with frailty, helplessness, and being past one's prime. Language experts, style guides, and medical professionals increasingly advocate for its retirement in favor of more precise, neutral, and person-first terminology. Using a single, loaded adjective to define a person also strips them of their individuality, focusing on a single, potentially negative, attribute instead of their whole identity. This is why language like "older adult" is preferred—it puts the person first.
Preferred Alternatives to "Elderly"
Choosing the right words is a simple but powerful way to demonstrate respect and promote positive aging. Here are some of the most widely accepted and recommended alternatives:
Person-First and Neutral Terms
- Older Adults/Older People: This is the most common and widely recommended alternative by organizations like the American Medical Association (AMA), American Psychological Association (APA), and Associated Press (AP). It is neutral and emphasizes the person, not just their age. The term recognizes that someone is an adult first, with a lifetime of experience.
- Seniors: While still used, "seniors" is also becoming dated and carries some of the same baggage as "elderly." Some still prefer it, but many older adults and advocacy groups are moving away from it. If used, it should be in a specific, defined context, such as "senior discount" or "senior center," and not as a generic label for all older individuals.
- People 65 and older: Using a specific age range is clear, objective, and bias-free. This is particularly useful in clinical studies or formal documents where precision is necessary. It avoids making generalizations and provides specific demographic data.
Context-Specific and Respectful Terms
- Elder: This term can be used respectfully, especially when referencing a person's seniority or wisdom, and is often culturally appropriate within certain communities, such as some American Indian/Alaska Native traditions. However, it should be used with care and only when it aligns with the cultural context or an individual's preference.
- Seasoned Soul/Venerable: For more creative or philosophical writing, these terms can be used to convey respect for a person's life experience without focusing on the negative aspects of aging. They carry a positive, reverent tone, which can be fitting in certain contexts.
- Using Their Name: The simplest and most respectful option is often to use a person's name. If you are writing about a specific individual, referring to them by name is always the best choice. This respects their individuality and personal identity above all else.
Comparison of Terms: Elderly vs. Preferred Language
| Feature | Problematic (e.g., "Elderly") | Preferred (e.g., "Older Adult") |
|---|---|---|
| Connotation | Often implies frailty, decline, and helplessness. | Neutral, dignified, and emphasizes the person's status as an adult. |
| Specificity | Vague and generalizes an entire demographic. | Can be more specific (e.g., "adults over 80") or respectfully general. |
| Individuality | Categorizes individuals by age, stripping them of personal identity. | Puts the person first, acknowledging their individuality. |
| Professional Use | Avoided by major medical and journalistic style guides. | Recommended by key professional organizations and style guides. |
| Ageist Potential | High potential for reinforcing negative stereotypes and ageism. | Low potential for ageism due to its neutral, descriptive nature. |
| Context | Often used without thought, potentially causing offense. | Used mindfully, with consideration for context and the individual. |
The Impact of Ageist Language
Our word choices shape perceptions and can inadvertently contribute to a culture of ageism. By moving away from terms like "elderly," we actively work to dismantle harmful stereotypes. The perception that older adults are a monolithic group, all experiencing the same decline, is a myth that age-inclusive language helps to break down. Instead, it promotes the understanding that aging is a diverse, individual process, and that older people, like all people, have unique strengths, experiences, and needs.
Age-inclusive language is about more than political correctness; it's about accuracy, dignity, and respect. It also fosters a more positive and healthy view of aging across all generations. A "silver tsunami" framing, for instance, suggests a catastrophe rather than a demographic shift, and using more neutral language can influence public policy discussions towards positive solutions. Language that respects older people affirms their ongoing value and contribution to society.
How to Apply Age-Inclusive Language
For content writers, healthcare professionals, and family members alike, integrating this more respectful vocabulary is straightforward. It starts with a conscious decision to pause and consider the impact of your words. Instead of defaulting to "the elderly," ask yourself, "Is there a more specific or respectful way to describe this person or group?"
When possible, provide specific details. For instance, rather than writing "a program for the elderly," you could write "a wellness program for adults 65 and older". In personal communication, simply using a person's name or referring to them as an "older adult" is often sufficient. If writing about a group, terms like "older population" or "aging community" can also be appropriate.
Adopting these practices is an ongoing process. As style guides and societal norms evolve, so too should our language. This is why authoritative sources like the National Institute on Aging's blog post on the topic are so important. Read more on avoiding ageism in writing.
Conclusion
In summary, there are several better words than "elderly" that demonstrate more respect, accuracy, and dignity. By choosing person-first, neutral, and context-specific language like "older adults," "older people," or specifying an age range, we can combat ageism and promote a more positive view of aging. The power of words is profound, and using language that honors the full individuality of older people is a simple, effective step towards building a more inclusive society for all ages.
