What is a sexagenarian?
The formal, Latin-derived term for a person in their 60s (60 to 69 years old) is sexagenarian. This word comes from the Latin sexagēnārius, meaning "sixty each," from sexāgintā, meaning "sixty". While accurate, sexagenarian is not typically used in casual conversation and is more often found in writing to emphasize the age of someone achieving something notable, such as running a marathon.
Other common and respectful terms
There are many other widely used terms for people in their sixties, and the preferred term can depend on context and personal preference. Many organizations, including the American Medical Association, recommend using age-inclusive language.
- Senior Adult/Older Adult: These terms are often preferred for their respectful and neutral tone. They are broad descriptors for people typically aged 60 or 65 and older and are commonly used by healthcare professionals and in the media.
- Senior Citizen: This term is frequently used in legal and commercial contexts for discounts and benefits. However, some individuals may perceive it negatively or as outdated.
- Elder: In certain cultural contexts, 'elder' signifies respect and wisdom. This term is sometimes preferred by individuals in specific communities or settings.
- Third Ager: This term describes individuals who are retired but active and pursuing leisure activities, education, or travel. It represents a life stage focused on personal interests after a primary career.
- Golden Ager: A positive term referring to the 'golden years' of retirement.
Generational labels vs. age-based labels
People in their sixties may also be associated with the Baby Boomer generation (born between 1946 and 1964). However, not all 60-year-olds are Baby Boomers, and generational labels can be less precise and carry broad generalizations. It's important to differentiate between age and generation.
Comparison of terms for a 60-year-old person
| Term | Connotation | Usage Context | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sexagenarian | Formal, specific, obscure | Academic writing, specific descriptive situations | Use with caution, as it is unfamiliar to many. |
| Older/Senior Adult | Neutral, respectful | General conversation, healthcare, media | Widely accepted and preferred for general use. |
| Senior Citizen | Commercial, legal | Discount eligibility, government programs | Some find it outdated; use when referring to benefits. |
| Elder | Respected, traditional | Cultural or community-specific contexts | Appropriate when known to be preferred by the individual/group. |
| Third Ager | Positive, active | Referring to retirees with active leisure pursuits | Niche usage but can be very appropriate. |
| Golden Ager | Positive, upbeat | Informal, often in senior community marketing | Use carefully as it may sound overly cheerful to some. |
Beyond the labels
Many individuals prefer being addressed by their name rather than an age-based label. While understanding these terms is useful, using a person's name is generally the most respectful approach unless the situation specifically requires an age descriptor. Focusing solely on age can perpetuate stereotypes and overlook the individual's unique character and experiences.
Conclusion
While sexagenarian is the specific term for someone in their 60s, it's not commonly used. More frequent and generally accepted terms include 'older adult' or 'senior adult.' The most respectful way to refer to a person is usually by their name, considering age-based terms only when necessary for context. Understanding the various terms is helpful, but personal preference and direct address are paramount.
