What is the older generation called?: Understanding Modern Terminology

According to the National Institute on Aging, using inclusive language is crucial to avoid reinforcing ageism. To understand what is the older generation called, one must move beyond outdated and potentially negative terms towards more respectful alternatives.

Quick Summary

Neutral and inclusive terms like "older adults" or "older people" are now preferred over labels such as "the elderly" or "senior citizens," which many find outdated or patronizing. Specific generational names, like Baby Boomers and the Silent Generation, provide more context based on birth years and shared historical experiences.

Key Points

• Preferred Terms: "Older adults" and "older people" are generally accepted as respectful and neutral terms.

• Avoid Stereotypes: Language like "the elderly" or "senior citizens" often reinforces negative, inaccurate stereotypes and should be avoided.

• Generational Labels: For specific demographic context, use generational names like Baby Boomers (1946–1964) or the Silent Generation (1925–1945).

• Context Matters: The best term depends on the specific context and personal preference, so it's best to avoid generalizations.

• Combat Ageism: Choosing person-first, inclusive language helps combat ageism and fosters a healthier perception of aging.

• Honoring Individuality: Respectful communication honors the diversity and individuality within the older population.

The Shift to Age-Inclusive Language

For many years, terms like "the elderly" and "senior citizen" were common ways to refer to people in their later decades. However, as awareness of ageism and negative stereotyping has grown, a significant shift toward more respectful and inclusive language has occurred. Organizations like the American Geriatrics Society and the American Medical Association now explicitly recommend against using these labels, advocating instead for person-first language and more neutral descriptors. The core of this shift is the recognition that older individuals are a diverse group with varied experiences, not a monolithic population defined by a single label.

Why are traditional terms being phased out?

Many older adults have expressed a dislike for terms that group them together under a potentially demeaning or patronizing umbrella. The term "the elderly," for example, often implies frailty, passivity, or a diminished mental state, which inaccurately represents the majority of vibrant, active older individuals. Similarly, while "senior citizen" was once used as a sign of respect, it can now be seen as an outdated and limiting label. This evolution in language reflects a broader societal change in how aging is perceived, moving from a negative state to a natural and valuable stage of life.

Specific Generational Cohorts

In addition to general terms for older age, demographics are often segmented into specific generational cohorts based on birth years. These names provide a more precise way to discuss groups with shared historical and cultural contexts.

• The Greatest Generation (Born ~1901–1924): These individuals came of age during the Great Depression and World War II. Named for their resilience and patriotism, this generation is now largely deceased, with a small number of centenarians remaining.
• The Silent Generation (Born ~1925–1945): Growing up during the Great Depression and WWII, they were known for being disciplined and cautious, raised to be “seen and not heard.” This generation is now in their late 70s to 90s.
• Baby Boomers (Born ~1946–1964): The name for this generation originated from the significant post-WWII population boom. As the first generation to be given a widely recognized name based on birth rate, they are now largely in their 60s and 70s.

It is important to remember that these are demographic labels, and individuals within each generation are unique. For example, some may experience health challenges early, while others remain highly active and engaged well into their 80s.

A comparative look at terminology

To help navigate the different options, the following table compares outdated terms with the more modern, inclusive alternatives recommended by health and aging experts.

Outdated/Less Preferred Terms	Modern/Preferred Terms	Why the Change?
The elderly	Older adults, older people	Avoids stereotyping and implications of frailty; promotes neutrality and respect.
Senior citizen	Older person, mature adult	Many find this patronizing or outdated; reflects evolving societal views on aging.
Old-timer, geezer, granny	Person's name, older adult	Often informal and can be offensive; personalization is more respectful.
Silver tsunami	Increase in the number of older adults	Avoids fatalistic and negative framing of demographic shifts.

Practical tips for respectful communication

Using appropriate language is more than just political correctness; it is about respecting individual dignity and experience. Here are some guidelines for effective, respectful communication:

1. Prioritize Person-First Language: Always refer to the person first, not their age or condition. Instead of saying, "an 85-year-old with arthritis," say, "a person with arthritis who is 85." This puts the individual before any labels.
2. Use Specificity: Where possible, be more specific than a broad term. Instead of "older adults," you might use a specific age range if it is relevant to the context, such as "people over the age of 75".
3. Default to Neutral Language: If you are uncertain about a person's preference, neutral terms like "older adult" are the safest and most respectful option. This term is widely accepted by many organizations and older individuals.
4. Embrace Nuance: Recognize that someone in their 60s may feel differently about aging than someone in their 90s. Acknowledge the diversity within the older population and the various stages of later life, such as the "young old" and "oldest old" recognized in gerontology.

The deeper impact of language choices

Language shapes perception, and the words we use when talking about aging can have a powerful impact on how society views older individuals, and how they view themselves. The use of language that focuses on vitality, wisdom, and active living can help to counter ageist stereotypes and foster a more positive and inclusive societal attitude toward aging. This reframing can impact everything from healthcare and policy to marketing and personal interactions.

The shift is toward seeing older adults as individuals who are still working, learning, traveling, and actively contributing to society, rather than a group that is simply approaching the end of their years. By choosing our words carefully, we can help dismantle negative perceptions and embrace the richness of the entire human lifespan. For more on this, the National Institute on Aging offers comprehensive guidelines on age-inclusive language that are valuable for writers, healthcare professionals, and the general public.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Words

Ultimately, there is no single answer to "what is the older generation called." Instead, there are numerous options that reflect a more modern and respectful understanding of later life. By favoring terms like "older adults" and using more specific generational names when appropriate, we can communicate in a way that honors individuality and combats ageism. The effort to choose respectful language is a small but significant step toward promoting a healthier, more inclusive view of aging for everyone. The best practice is always to respect personal preference, but defaulting to inclusive and neutral language is a strong starting point for any discussion concerning people in their later years.

For more detailed guidance on respectful communication, please refer to the National Institute on Aging's blog on age-inclusive language: Don’t call me “old”: Avoiding ageism when writing about aging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it offensive to call someone a 'senior citizen'?

Yes, many older adults find the term "senior citizen" outdated or patronizing. It's generally better to use more inclusive language like "older adult" or "older person".

What should I say instead of 'the elderly'?

Instead of "the elderly," use respectful and neutral terms such as "older adults," "older people," or "older individuals".

Is the Silent Generation still considered part of the 'older generation'?

Yes, the Silent Generation, born roughly between 1925 and 1945, is one of the older living generations, preceding the Baby Boomers.

Why is language about aging changing?

The shift in language is driven by a desire for more accurate and respectful communication that avoids ageism and negative stereotypes, reflecting a broader cultural change.

What if I'm unsure what term to use for an older person?

Default to using general and respectful terms like "older adult". If appropriate, you could even ask the individual how they prefer to be addressed, but in many cases, using their name is best.

How are Baby Boomers defined?

The Baby Boomer generation is generally defined as the cohort born between 1946 and 1964, during the post-World War II baby boom.

What is the difference between a generational name and an age-based term?

A generational name, like Baby Boomer, is based on a specific range of birth years. An age-based term, like "older adult," refers to a current life stage and can apply to many different generations.