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Inclusive Writing

Age

What is ageism?

Ageism refers to "the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) towards others or oneself based on age" (World Health Organization). Ageism can impact and be carried out by anyone. Examples of ageism include:

  • Negative stereotypes such as saying young people are lazy, or so-called positive stereotypes such as saying older people are wise.
  • Not hiring an individual because of their age.
  • Believing that older people are frail and in need of protection. 

 

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Age-inclusive Language

The following are some guidelines and examples on using age-inclusive language. Consider if it's important to refer to a person's or group's age. If it's relevant, use respectful and inclusive terms that do not stereotype, exclude, or discriminate because of age. Note that you may also need to consider the appropriate gender-inclusive language when using age-inclusive language. For example, older women or transgender boy.

Older Adults

The American Psychological Association (APA) has the following recommendations when referring to older adults:

Instead of using... Consider... Examples

senior / seniors, elderly, the aged, senior citizens, old (e.g., old man)

older person/persons/people

older adult/adults

older individual/individuals

defining specific age or age range, if relevant

decade descriptors (e.g., octogenarian)

I facilitate fitness classes for older adults.

The research study is open to individuals between 65 and 80 years old.
Younger People

The American Psychological Association (APA) has the following recommendations when referring to younger people:

  • Individuals 12 years old and under: infant (for a very young child), child, girl, boy, transgender girl, transgender boy, gender-fluid child, and so on.
  • Individuals between 13 and 17 years old: adolescent, young person, youth, young woman, young man, female adolescent, male adolescent, agender adolescent, and so on.
Adults

The American Psychological Association (APA) recommends that for an individual aged 18 years and older, appropriate terms are adult, woman, man, transgender man, trans man, transgender woman, trans woman, genderqueer adult, cisgender adult, and so on. When referring to adults of different ages, you can describe age groups, such as young adults, middle-aged adults, and older adults.

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Avoid Stereotypes & Clichés

It's important to keep in mind that age isn't indicative of a person's qualities and capabilities. When writing, it is best to avoid certain terms and expressions that perpetuate stereotypes based on age.

Stereotypes

Ensure that the language, content, and tone of your work is inclusive of age and doesn't promote stereotypes. Try to avoid:

  • Using images and visuals which portray stereotypes of certain age groups (view example). 
  • Automatically associating certain qualities and behaviours to certain age groups, such as describing older adults as wise.
  • Seeing certain qualities as uncommon because of someone's age. For example saying to a 20-year old that they're responsible for their age.   
Clichés

Certain words and expressions relating to age can be disrespectful or insensitive. This includes:

  • Terms or phrases that view being older as a negative. For example, saying that someone who is older is past their prime.
  • Phrases that associate certain qualities to a specific age group. For example, saying having a senior moment when one can't remember something.
  • Some phrases or words can also be patronizing or insulting when used to refer to certain age groups. For example, calling an older person a dinosaur, or calling a young adult a kid.