• Most people want to be regarded as individuals. Yet members of the media often refer to older people in terms of old-fashioned stereotypes or as an homogenous mass.

• At the same time the language they use to describe older people is sometimes derogatory and/ or discriminatory.

• In the rush to meet deadlines, it is easy to rely on old-fashioned cliches and stereotypes.

• Here are some hints on using appropriate language:

  • Use "issues", "concerns", "challenges", instead of "burden" and "problem".

  • Use "older person" rather than pensioner, because the latter discriminates on the grounds of income. Older people also regard the words as stigmatising.

  • Talk "health and community" not "aged care".

  • Use the term "older person/ woman/ man" and not "granny", "grandmother", "grandfather", geriatric", "gerry".

  • Use chronological ages only where it is relevant to do so.

  • Use "older people" rather than the "elderly" or "the aged".

  • Avoid judgements like "he was 60 but still fighting fit".

  • Remember that lumping 55 years olds in with 85 year olds is like saying that a baby and a 30 year old are in the same age group.

  • Never assume that poor health, senility or a nursing home are inevitable consequences of ageing.

  • Talk in terms of what people are doing rather than in terms of how old they are.

Words to Avoid

• Pensioner

• The ageing

• The aged

• Grannies

• Aged people

• Dears

• The elderly

• Problem/ burden

• Geriatric

Appropriate Angles

DO'S

• Speak about older people being positive and active. Avoid caricatures or stereotypes of older people.

• Depict older people in all aspects of life including non-traditional roles. This includes older people as volunteers, paid workers, athletes, artists, etc. and not only as grandparents or "bingo players".

• Include positive representations of older women, and those with disabilities.

DON'TS

• Do not identify the person's age if it is not necessary within the context of the material;

• Do not stereotype older people as being all alike;

• Do not depict older people in non-traditional roles as if their involvement in a particular activity is extraordinary;

• Do not make stereotypical statements about the living and working conditions of older people;

• Do not depict older people's success as being out of the ordinary.

© Copyright Australian Coalition 99 & The United Nations