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Let's consign the term 'the elderly' to the past.

Hazel Health1

  • 1For older people older people's forum.

Nursing Older People
|June 29, 2012
PubMed
Summary

The term "the elderly" is outdated and inaccurate, contradicting how older adults prefer to be addressed. This study highlights the need for respectful and person-centered language when discussing aging populations.

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Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Sociolinguistics
  • Medical Terminology

Background:

  • The term "the elderly" is prevalent in media and everyday language.
  • This terminology is increasingly recognized as problematic and disrespectful.
  • Older adults often express a preference for alternative, more individualized forms of address.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the connotations and impact of the term "the elderly".
  • To explore alternative terminology preferred by older individuals.
  • To advocate for more respectful and accurate language in discussions of aging.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of media and academic usage of "the elderly".
  • Analysis of qualitative data from surveys and interviews with older adults regarding their preferred terminology.
  • Linguistic analysis of the term's semantic and pragmatic implications.

Main Results:

  • The term "the elderly" is perceived as a monolithic, depersonalizing label.
  • Participants consistently favored terms emphasizing individuality, such as "older adults" or "seniors".
  • The use of "the elderly" can perpetuate ageist stereotypes and undermine the dignity of older individuals.

Conclusions:

  • The term "the elderly" should be retired from professional and public discourse.
  • Adopting person-first and individualized language is crucial for respectful communication about aging.
  • Promoting accurate and dignified terminology benefits both older adults and society's understanding of aging.

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