Avoiding Ageist Terminology -- Language Matters

Ageism happens at every level, from internalized ageism in individuals to ageism embedded in our systems and policies, and it has a detrimental impact on our quality of life, health, and economy.

As lifespans increase, the perception of what constitutes old age is changing ~ and older adults are living longer and, for the most part, healthier lives.

Research by FrameWorks Institute shows that certain terms are often associated with – and reinforce – negative stereotypes about older people that result in stereotyping and discrimination.

How to Avoid Ageist Terminology

• Avoid using seniors, elderly, senior citizens, the aged, old person, young person
• People in older adult communities are not patients, they are residents in their homes, even in assisted living
• Don't use age if it isn't necessary. Is listing someone's age relevant to the story?
• Avoid stereotypes like grandmotherly or grandfatherly
• Don't describe all older adults as frail, weak, vulnerable
• Even “positive” ageism is problematic: X years young, old and wise, young at heart, or age is just a number

Use More Age-Positive Phrases

• Associated Press guidelines: “We prefer terms like older adult or older people over senior citizens, seniors or elderly as a general description when appropriate and relevant.”
• Use phrases such as older workers, older athletes, younger people
• Use specifics when relevant and necessary, such as adults over 60 or octogenarians
• Another inclusive way to reference age is by presenting age as relative, e.g., younger than or older than, which removes bias and is a factual descriptor

SOURCE: Changing the Narrative: Ending Ageism Together

To learn more about the movement to end ageism, watch this TED Talk by Ashton Applewhite.