OPINION: Don’t Call Me A Senior
It’s Time To Ditch Negative Stereotypes
By Janine Vanderburg
For the GPHN
As we emerge from the pandemic and acknowledge the ageism it exposed, this is a good time to stop and think: what can we do collectively to end ageism, whether it’s birthday cards that mock getting older or being pushed out of the workforce.
While workplace age discrimination requires big solutions by policymakers and businesses, there are some things we can all do in our everyday lives that will help us reduce ageism. One is to simply eliminate from our vocabulary terms that diminish older adults and reinforce negative stereotypes.
Here are just a few words and phrases it’s time to discard:
Senior, senior citizen, elderly
In 2020, the Associated Press announced changes in its Stylebook, recommending that “older adult” or “older person” be used instead of senior, senior citizen, and elderly, and also suggesting the use of descriptive language, e.g., “our programs serve people age 60 and over.” Why? Because research by FrameWorks Institute shows that these terms are often associated with, and reinforce, negative stereotypes about older people.
Silver tsunami, grey wave, going off a demographic cliff
Often used to describe our aging population, these phrases suggest that older people are a demographic disaster. In addition to casting older adults in a negative light as economic burdens, the metaphors aren’t accurate. We have known about the aging of America and the world for some time. We know how older adults contribute significantly to our communities and the workplace.
Still, in front of a verb, applied to an older adult
As in “still” working, still doing [whatever it is]. No, I am not “still” working, which would suggest that maybe working at my age is an outlier. I am working, as are millions of older adults, because we want to, because we need to, and maybe a combination of both. Working brings purpose, passion, paycheck and social connection. Just drop the “still.”
“Weak, vulnerable” describing an older American
Repeated ad nauseam by well-meaning public health officials during the pandemic, this term became associated with older people and cemented another stereotype. People who need extra supports to thrive in community aren’t weak and vulnerable; systems that don’t provide those supports are what are weak and vulnerable. Let’s strengthen our policies and systems, so those terms can be eliminated from our vocabulary altogether.
You look great for your age
Sometimes words meant to be complimentary, aren’t. This phrase suggests that as you age, you are supposed to look a certain way—not good. A YouTube video by AARP and SoulPancake called Why You Should Stop Giving This “Compliment” explains why. A great alternative? “You look great!” Period. Full stop.
Young lady or young man
When used to describe someone older than 18, it’s diminishing, just like “sweetie” or “honey.” What may seem like a term of endearment infantilizes older people, and makes us seem less capable than we are. And research shows that experiencing everyday ageism has negative impacts on our health and wellbeing.
It’s time for those of us who recognize the contributions that older adults make to our communities, workplaces and overall society help end ageist language. Together.
Janine Vanderburg directs Changing the Narrative, a campaign to change the way people think, talk and act about aging and ageism. Our end game? To end ageism. Read more about our anti-ageist birthday card campaign and what we are doing to reduce workplace ageism at changingthenarrativeco.org.