What is the appropriate term for elderly? A Guide to Respectful Language

Oct 25, 2025 4 min read •

Healthy Aging Communication Ageism

According to research from the National Institute on Aging, using outdated language can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to ageism. Understanding what is the appropriate term for elderly is crucial, as the right terminology helps foster respect and dignity for a diverse and vibrant population.

Quick Summary

While terms like 'elderly' and 'senior citizen' were once common, they are now often viewed as outdated or stigmatizing; the preferred and respectful alternatives are 'older adults' or 'older people,' which emphasize individuality and combat ageist assumptions.

Key Points

Preferred Term: The most widely accepted and respectful term is 'older adults' or 'older people,' emphasizing personhood over age.
Avoid Stereotypes: Words like 'elderly' and 'senior citizen' are increasingly considered outdated because they perpetuate negative stereotypes and bias.
Person-First Approach: Always refer to the person first before mentioning age or a health condition, e.g., 'a person with dementia' instead of 'a dementia patient.'
Context and Specificity: For formal writing or research, be specific with age ranges, such as 'adults aged 75 to 84,' rather than using broad, general terms.
Individual Preference Matters: While 'older adult' is a safe and respectful default, asking individuals how they prefer to be addressed is the most respectful approach.
Combat Ageism: Using respectful language is an active way to combat ageism and promote a more positive and accurate understanding of the aging process.

The Shift Towards Person-Centered Language

Language is a powerful tool that shapes perceptions and influences attitudes. In the context of aging, the move towards person-centered language reflects a broader societal shift away from ageist stereotypes. Historically, terms like 'the aged' or 'the elderly' were common, but they tend to group a vast, diverse population under a single, often negative, label. This dehumanizing effect is why major professional organizations, like the American Geriatrics Society and the National Institute on Aging, now advocate for more respectful and accurate terminology.

The conscious choice of words directly impacts how older individuals are perceived and how they perceive themselves. Using respectful language affirms their value as contributing members of society and recognizes the wide range of experiences that come with aging. By adopting more thoughtful terms, we actively challenge the harmful idea that aging is a state of decline and instead embrace it as a dynamic and individualized life stage.

Why "Older Adults" is the Preferred Term

Over the past few decades, "older adult" has emerged as the standard, respectful term in gerontology, medicine, journalism, and senior care. Its use is deliberate and reflects several key principles:

Emphasis on Personhood: The term 'older adults' puts the emphasis on the individual first, rather than their age. It reinforces that a person is defined by more than just their chronological years.
Neutral and Descriptive: 'Older adult' is a neutral and factual descriptor. It avoids the negative connotations of frailty, incompetence, or dependency often associated with words like 'elderly.'
Avoids Stereotypes: Unlike other outdated labels, 'older adult' does not suggest a monolithic group with a singular experience. It acknowledges the vast diversity in health, mobility, and interests among people over the age of 65.
Endorsed by Experts: Leading authorities, including the American Medical Association (AMA), the American Psychological Association (APA), and the National Institute on Aging (NIA), formally recommend using 'older adults' or similar neutral phrasing. Their support gives this terminology significant weight in professional and public discourse.

Outdated and Problematic Terms to Avoid

To communicate respectfully and combat ageism, it's important to understand why certain words are no longer appropriate. Here's a breakdown of commonly used but outdated terms:

"Elderly": This term often comes with implicit biases, suggesting frailty, dependence, and poor health. Many people who are chronologically old do not fit this stereotype and find the term offensive. In most professional and social settings, it is best to avoid it.
"Senior Citizen" or "Senior": While widely used, this label has fallen out of favor. It originated during the New Deal era to define recipients of benefits and can carry connotations of being a separate, dependent class. While some may not mind the term, studies show a growing preference for more inclusive language.
"The Aged": This is a dehumanizing term that reduces individuals to a single characteristic—their age. It groups people together and strips them of their individuality.
"Geriatric": This is a specific clinical term for the medical care of older people and should not be used as a general descriptor for an individual or group. Describing a person as 'geriatric' is inappropriate and often taken as an insult.
"Elders": While this term can have positive connotations of wisdom, particularly in certain cultures (e.g., Native American communities), it is not a universally accepted term for all older people and should be used with caution and cultural awareness.

Choosing Your Words with Intention: Best Practices

Making the right word choice isn't complicated. By following a few best practices, you can ensure your communication is respectful and accurate.

Prioritize Person-First Language. When describing an individual, focus on their personhood before their age or any medical condition. For example, say "a person living with dementia" instead of "a dementia patient."
Be Specific with Age Ranges. When precision is necessary, use specific age ranges (e.g., "people aged 75 to 84") rather than a single, broad term. This is particularly useful in scientific studies or descriptive writing where context matters.
Ask for Individual Preference. In one-on-one interactions, it's always best to ask an individual how they prefer to be addressed. This simple act respects their autonomy and unique identity.
Use Inclusive Language. Remember that aging is a universal experience. Where appropriate, use inclusive language like "we" and "us" to frame issues that affect us all, rather than creating an "us vs. them" dynamic. This also helps combat the fear and avoidance often associated with aging.

Terminology Comparison Table


Term	Usage	Rationale for Use or Avoidance
Older Adult / Older Person	Preferred. Used to refer to individuals or populations respectfully.	Neutral, person-centered language that avoids stereotypes and is endorsed by major health organizations.
Elderly	Avoid. Often used to describe individuals or groups.	Connotes stereotypes of frailty, weakness, and incompetence, which can be inaccurate and disrespectful.
Senior Citizen	Outdated. Commonly used for discounts or certain programs.	Carries connotations of dependency and can feel alienating or condescending. The term is in decline in professional contexts.
The Aged	Avoid. Refers to a population group.	Dehumanizing and reductionist, stripping individuals of their unique identities by reducing them to a single category.

Conclusion: The Power of Respectful Communication

The language we use to describe older individuals is a direct reflection of our attitudes towards aging itself. By consciously choosing respectful, person-centered terms like 'older adults,' we move beyond harmful stereotypes and embrace a more inclusive and accurate view of later life. For those seeking to deepen their understanding of this important topic, the National Institute on Aging offers valuable insights and guidelines on avoiding ageist language. By making a few intentional shifts in our vocabulary, we can foster a society where people of all ages are seen and valued for their full humanity.

Frequently Asked Questions

The term 'elderly' is often viewed as offensive because it can carry negative connotations of frailty, poor health, and dependency. It groups a diverse population under a single stereotype that doesn't accurately reflect the vibrancy and abilities of many older individuals.

While 'senior citizen' was once a common term, it is now considered outdated by many. Its origins are tied to social benefit programs, and some people find it patronizing or feel it marginalizes them. 'Older adults' is the more preferred, modern, and respectful term.

The most respectful and inclusive term for a group of older people is 'older adults' or 'older people.' These terms avoid the negative stereotypes associated with 'the elderly' and are endorsed by major health and aging organizations.

It is always best to use polite, formal language until invited to do otherwise. Address them by 'Mr./Ms. [Last Name]' rather than using first names or infantilizing terms like 'dear' or 'honey.' For general descriptions, 'older adult' is a safe and respectful choice.

Yes, many major organizations do. The American Medical Association (AMA), American Psychological Association (APA), Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, and the National Institute on Aging (NIA) all recommend using 'older adults' or specific age descriptors over terms like 'elderly' and 'senior citizen' to combat age bias.

The primary difference is the connotation. 'Older adult' is a neutral, descriptive term that focuses on the person. 'Elderly' often carries implicit negative stereotypes of decline and frailty that don't apply to the vast majority of people as they age.

Respectful language matters because it directly impacts societal attitudes toward aging and can combat ageism. Research has linked ageism to poorer physical and mental health outcomes in older people. Using positive and accurate language helps create a more inclusive and equitable society for everyone.

References

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.