What's another word for older people? Exploring respectful and specific language

According to the National Institute on Aging, avoiding ageist terminology is crucial for promoting positive attitudes towards aging. So, when you ask, "What's another word for older people?", the answer depends on context, tone, and the specific group or individual you are referring to. While general terms like 'older adults' are widely accepted, a host of other options range from specific descriptors to respectful, honorific titles.

Quick Summary

This guide provides a comprehensive list of synonyms and alternatives for older people, categorized by context. It explains the nuances of different terms, advises on avoiding common ageist pitfalls, and offers tips for choosing language that is respectful, accurate, and person-centered.

Key Points

• Choose 'Older Adults' or 'Older People': These are the most widely accepted and respectful neutral terms for general use, according to organizations like the AMA and AP.

• Avoid 'Elderly' and 'Senior Citizen' in General Use: Many find these terms outdated, stereotypical, or condescending, implying frailty or dependency.

• Use Person-First Language: Frame your sentences to emphasize the individual, not their age group (e.g., "an older person" instead of "the elderly").

• Be Specific When Possible: Instead of a generic term, use specific age ranges (e.g., "people aged 75 to 84") in formal or research contexts for greater accuracy.

• Reserve Honorifics for Specific Contexts: Terms like 'elder' and 'patriarch' are respectful but can be culturally specific and should be used with appropriate awareness.

• Never Use Derogatory Slang: Clearly insulting terms like 'geezer,' 'old fogy,' and 'coffin dodger' are never appropriate.

• Consider the Individual's Preference: When addressing a specific person, the most respectful approach is to use their name or honorific, and if unsure, ask for their preferred term.

Using Respectful and Neutral Language

When referring to older individuals or a general demographic, modern style guides from organizations like the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Associated Press (AP) advocate for neutral and person-first language. This approach prevents stereotyping and acknowledges that aging is a normal, diverse human experience.

Preferred Neutral Terms

• Older adults: This is widely considered a safe and respectful term for a general audience. The modifier "older" is factual and acknowledges the diversity within this age group.
• Older people: Similar to "older adults," this is a broadly accepted and neutral choice.
• Older persons: A slightly more formal alternative, also recognized by medical and academic style guides.
• Individuals aged X and older: Using a specific age range, such as "individuals 65 years and older," is highly recommended for accuracy when relevant, such as in research or policy contexts.

Terms to Use with Caution or Avoid

• Elderly: This term is falling out of favor because it can carry negative connotations of frailty and illness. Many organizations, including the AMA and AP, advise against its general use.
• Seniors / Senior citizens: While widely used, these terms have become somewhat dated and can connote dependency. Some older adults find them to be "othering".
• The aged: This is generally considered stereotypical and should be avoided.

Terms of Honor and Respect

In some cases, especially in more formal or culturally specific contexts, terms that convey respect and wisdom are appropriate. The key is to be mindful of cultural norms and individual preference.

• Elder: This term implies respect and wisdom, especially within certain cultural groups, such as American Indian or Alaska Native communities. Use it with caution and awareness, as it may not be appropriate in all contexts.
• Patriarch/Matriarch: These terms are used to describe a respected head of a family or community, carrying connotations of honor and authority based on age and experience.
• Sage: This word implies a person of profound wisdom and experience.

Informal and Colloquialisms

Casual conversation may include various colloquialisms. However, many are considered ageist or derogatory and should be used with extreme care, if at all. Some older individuals may use these terms playfully among themselves, but it is rarely appropriate for outsiders.

Informal or Endearing Terms

• Golden ager: A lighthearted and positive, though somewhat outdated, term for an older person.
• Old-timer: Can be affectionate, especially when used to describe a long-standing member of a group or community.

Terms to Avoid

• Old fogey / Old coot / Old fart: These are clearly derogatory and insulting.
• Geezer: A derogatory term for an older man.
• Coffin dodger / Wrinkly: Both are derogatory slang terms.

Comparison of Terms for Older Adults

Term	Connotation	Context	Notes
Older adults / Older people	Neutral, respectful	Professional, general communication	Widely preferred by major organizations and style guides.
Elder	Respectful, honorific	Specific cultural or formal settings	Can imply wisdom; culturally dependent.
Mature adults	Neutral, positive	Marketing, general use	Focuses on maturity rather than age.
Senior / Senior citizen	Neutral, but often outdated	Historically common, for discounts	Can be seen as "othering" or condescending; use with caution.
Elderly	Negative, implying frailty	Generally avoided in modern discourse	Associated with negative stereotypes of decline.
Golden ager	Positive, but clichéd	Casual, lighthearted (dated)	Can feel patronizing.
Old-timer	Informal, often affectionate	Casual conversation	Best reserved for people known to you personally.

The Importance of Person-First Language

Using person-first language means emphasizing the person before their age or a condition. Instead of saying "the elderly," say "older people." This small but significant change reframes the individual, moving them from a categorized group to a person with a lifespan of experience and identity. For instance, rather than describing someone as "suffering from arthritis," a person-first approach would be "a person diagnosed with arthritis".

Using Specifics Over Generalities

Just as you wouldn't use one term for everyone in their 20s, a one-size-fits-all approach to referring to older adults is inaccurate and ageist. A 65-year-old and a 95-year-old can have vastly different life experiences and health statuses. When possible and relevant, use more specific descriptions. For example, instead of "the exercise class for seniors," consider "the exercise program for people over 75" to be more precise and inclusive.

Conclusion

Navigating the language around age requires sensitivity and awareness. While "older people" and "older adults" serve as the most widely accepted and neutral alternatives for general use, understanding the spectrum of options—from honorific terms like elder to colloquialisms to avoid—is crucial for respectful communication. Ultimately, the best approach is to consider the context, focus on person-first language, and, when in doubt, default to a neutral, specific term. The power of language lies not just in finding a substitute word, but in reframing our attitudes toward aging itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is 'older adult' now preferred over 'elderly'?

The term 'elderly' is often associated with negative stereotypes and connotations of frailty, illness, or weakness. The term 'older adult' is a neutral, factual descriptor that does not carry these negative implications and is preferred by many style guides.

Is it rude to say 'senior citizen'?

The term 'senior citizen' is not always considered rude, but it can be seen as dated or 'othering' by some. Many older adults prefer more neutral terms like 'older person,' and the term has historically been linked to those in need of services, which can connote dependency.

What is a respectful way to refer to an older person I don't know?

The most respectful and neutral way to refer to an older person you don't know is to use a person-first term like 'older adult' or 'older person.' In conversation, using 'ma'am' or 'sir' can also be appropriate, depending on the context and your relationship.

Are there different rules for referring to older people in different cultures?

Yes, cultural norms regarding age and respect vary significantly. For example, the term 'elder' carries specific, positive connotations within certain cultural contexts, such as American Indian or Alaska Native communities. When unsure, observe the language used within that culture and err on the side of respectful, neutral terms.

What are some examples of ageist language to avoid?

Besides derogatory slang, avoid language that reinforces negative stereotypes, such as calling someone '80 years young,' or describing a group using stereotypical terms like 'feisty' or 'spry'. Euphemisms like 'over the hill' or 'golden years' can also be perceived as insensitive.

Why is it important to use age-inclusive language?

Using age-inclusive language is important because it combats ageism, which has been linked to poorer physical and mental health outcomes for older adults. Respectful language promotes a positive and accurate perception of aging as a normal human experience.

What should I call an older person in a medical setting?

In a medical context, it is best to use person-first language like 'older patient' or 'older individual'. Use specific age details when possible and relevant, such as 'a patient 75 years and older.' Avoid the term 'geriatric' unless you are specifically referring to the branch of medicine, as using it to describe people is considered ageist.