🔤 Older Adults
Terms for describing age and years of experience
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Use clear, respectful, and specific language when referring to age. Avoid broad labels and unnecessary references.
When to include age
Include a person’s age when it adds meaning.
Age may be relevant in:
profiles or obituaries
stories about age-related issues
unusual accomplishments at a particular age
situations where age helps explain the context (such as children, teenagers, or age-specific roles)
Leave it out when it does not add value.
Use:
Neutral, general terms when needed: older adults, older people
Specific age ranges when relevant: people 65 and older, people in their 70s
Avoid:
Broad or vague labels: the elderly, seniors, senior citizens
Referring to people as a group noun: the elderly
Decision points
How specific should I be?
Be as specific as the context allows. Use age ranges or descriptions when they add clarity.
What if a person prefers a term?
Use the term a person uses for themselves, including senior or senior citizen, when appropriate.
Word choice
Avoid vague or loaded terms: elderly (except when necessary for brevity, such as in headlines).
Use more specific descriptions when possible: people in their 80s instead of elderly people.
Other details may be more meaningful: a Vietnam War veteran, a parent of two adult children
Be aware:
Age ranges and definitions vary.
Avoid stereotypes about ability, health, or independence.
Age is only one aspect of a person’s identity.
Consider whether age helps readers understand the situation or simply adds unnecessary detail.
Examples:
Better: Programs for people 65 and older
Avoid: Programs for the elderly
Better: An exercise program for people in their 70s
Avoid: An exercise program for seniors
Introduction | Stereotyping | Race | Gender | Disabilities
Immigration | Religion | Health Conditions | Older Adults