Suzanne Marlatt Stewart
“Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”
…or does it?
Our life expectancy has risen dramatically; thus, the definition of age has rapidly evolved. Everything is comparable in life, and so it is with aging. If we reach a point where people are living to 120+ and in good health, perhaps turning 70 will be seen as middle age. According to
PerKarl Pillemeer, PhD, “For policy-planning purposes, ‘over 75’ is a much more meaningful demographic than ‘over 65’.” He adds that it is because people past 75 are much more likely to develop chronic disease. People between 65 and 75 are far more like those in middle age. So perhaps we shall respectfully dub “old age” as 75?
But is this even the accurate way to think about age? What words could we even use to describe it?
The word “old” feels inherently derogatory and is associated with deterioration and obsolescence.
Another option is “elderly,” but that also carries tons of baggage. It evokes the feelings of someone needing extensive help just existing.
The term, “geriatric” has a too-strong medical connotation, and evokes thoughts of extended family trying to find the appropriate care for a high maintenance loved one.
The title “senior” is confusing because it invites the question, “Senior to whom?” The term is also used with universities and high schools, and in job titles, such as “Senior Vice President.”
The choice “older” tends to have a less negative connotation, though it still feels like a label, though less so than “old.”
One recommended option is: “older adults.” This label is shown to reduce negative perceptions and stereotyping more than other terms.
The term “older adults” isn’t a perfect solution. It implies there is a group of younger adults, which isn’t properly defined. But the ambiguity itself helps reduce categorical thinking.
We can’t erase the societal bias that goes against older adults. More than 93% of people over the ages of 50 will experience ageism at some point. Sadly, it’s a form of bigotry that most of us will both experience and unintentionally perpetrate. This is why we should think more clearly about how we describe age, to help account for this bias.
The challenge is that we are proven to define a successful older adult, in this case, aged 65 and older, as having completed three criteria:
1. Having avoided major diseases.
2. Having no disabilities.
3. Having maintained full physical and cognitive function.
I urge you to stay healthy, treat your body kindly, and turn to others with a caring heart. Remember that we are all on this shared path of getting older and will all succumb to the wear and tear that life inevitably brings.
Remember that aging is a gift. Celebrate your age– you have gathered lots of experiences and wisdom over the years to share. You are amazing!
Rev. Suzanne, a resident of SaddleBrooke is an independent writer and speaker. She was ordained non-denominational, representing all faiths, her focus is “inclusive.” Email her at spiritualoccasions@outlook.com.