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Key points
- Positive language about aging is associated with lowered health risks (e.g. cardiovascular events).
- Stereotypes about older adults limit their engagement in fulfilling activities and personal growth.
- Common phrases like "senior moment" perpetuate unfounded negative beliefs about cognitive aging.
As a clinical psychologist specializing in gerontology, I often reflect on the subtle nuances of language and their profound impact on our perceptions of aging.
A recent family gathering provided a vivid example of this: Two older family members, reuniting after a decade, exchanged greetings that unwittingly reinforced negative age stereotypes. One commented, “You look great for your age,” to which the other replied, “You don’t look so bad yourself.” This interaction, though seemingly innocuous, highlights a broader societal issue: the casual normalization of ageism.
The pioneering research of Becca Levy at Yale University illuminates the tangible effects of such stereotypes on health. Levy’s work has consistently demonstrated that negative views about aging can significantly influence our physical well-being. In a landmark study, her team discovered a startling correlation between young individuals’ negative stereotypes about aging and their increased likelihood of experiencing cardiovascular events over the next 38 years. Conversely, fostering more positive views on aging was found to reduce this risk.
With the new year upon us, it's a prime opportunity to reevaluate and retire some common yet damaging phrases about aging. Not only will this benefit those around us, but it will also nurture our future selves.
- “You look great for your age." This seemingly complimentary remark is a veiled reinforcement of ageism, implying that aging is undesirable and that value is tied to youthfulness. Instead, offer unambiguous praise like, “You look great,” which appreciates the person without age-related conditions.
- “She’s too old to do that.” Such statements severely underestimate older adults and perpetuate outdated ideas of what aging “should” look like. Let's encourage and celebrate the diverse interests and capabilities of older adults, recognizing their right to engage in fulfilling activities at any age.
- “Senior moment.” Describing memory lapses as “senior moments” not only trivializes the issue but also fosters negative stereotypes about cognitive aging. It's crucial to understand that while memory disorders are more common in older adulthood, they are not normal. Mindful language involves not attributing minor forgetfulness to age and recognizing that everyone, irrespective of age, can have moments of distraction.
- “Act your age.” This phrase often aims to regulate behavior seen as inappropriate for one’s age, reinforcing rigid and outdated norms. In my work on sexual health and aging, I encourage health providers to confront their biases about aging and sexuality. It’s important to support individuals in embracing their authentic selves at every age.
- “Old dogs can't learn new tricks." This cliché wrongly suggests that older individuals are inherently averse to learning or new experiences. Research shows that resistance to change is less about age and more about individual openness. Let's shift the narrative to celebrate the ongoing potential for growth and learning in older adults.
Language shapes our perceptions, and the words we use to discuss aging are no exception. By consciously choosing our words, we foster a societal shift toward a more inclusive and respectful view of aging.
This year, let's commit to being ambassadors of change, challenging ageist language, and advocating for a narrative that celebrates aging in all its diversity and potential.
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