“Ageism” describes an attitude; that somehow once people grow older, we are less, as in: less capable, less intelligent, less able-bodied, less attractive… all those aspects that define a person, in a very negative light.
An “Ageist” is someone who practices ageism through prejudice and stereotyping, whether intentionally or not. The word “ageist” is an insulting, negative description applied to someone who communicates using adjectives that reflect that idea of “less” for older adults. In this way, it’s not different from “racist” or “facist” or any other derogatory “ists”.
An Ageist uses words like:
Elderly
Granny or Gramps
Geezer
Old Fogey
Cougar
Old-Timer
___<- add your word here.
To be fair – They may use ill-chosen words for any number of reasons, including: they just don’t like older people, or they are ignorant as to an older person’s preferences. Maybe they just never realize they’ll be older one day too (if they’re lucky!) Personally, I probably wouldn’t apply “ageist” as an insult unless I knew it was intentional.
Why do I bring this up today?
Because I think it’s up to all of us older folks to correct the use of words that describe US when we know they are intended to make us feel “less.”
Working to change the conversation isn’t different from previous shifts in the use of descriptors of culture or race. Before the 1970s, we were raised to call someone with dark skin a “Negro.” Later we shifted to “African American.” Today the accepted term we hear most often is “Black.” What caused all those shifts? Efforts on the part of people they applied to, to correct us into using the terms they preferred.
Fair enough!
There’s another important reason I raise this today. That is, this is Ageism Awareness Day! Recognized on the second Saturday of October each year, and promoted by the American Society on Aging, it heralds the efforts made by those of us who know that words and attitudes matter.
If we want to shift the conversation, it’s up to us to make it happen!
It doesn’t have to be difficult. If someone describes you with a name you don’t like, tell them politely what you prefer:
You know, the word “elderly’ makes me feel old and useless. Would you be kind enough to call me a “Senior” instead?”
… or however you’re comfortable doing so.
Have you had the opportunity to help someone else change the adjective they called you? Tell us the story in the Comments below!
