As Our Parents Age

Senior Parents: What a Difference a Word Makes

Words matter, especially words that describe people who are aging. In every day conversation, disrespectful phrases such as “old people” or “old folks,” are commonly used. My parents and many of their friends detest these comments.

This week I listened to a podcast of a panel discussion, produced by a well-known media outlet, and buried in the interesting content were comments such as “too old” and “not all there.” So many of these words emphasize the gap between older and younger people. The problem is ageism, plain and simple.

Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community Supportive Language Card, Side 1

Growing old is a normal part of life, and while it can be hard work, most people manage it quite well with intellects intact.

Yet keeping a sense of self, not to mention pride, is a daily challenge — maybe this challenge should even be added to the activities of daily living (ADL). Older seniors navigate a minefield of unintentional (my dad calls them tacky) comments and references designed to trivialize, and it’s no small challenge. The International Longevity Center, founded by the late Dr. Robert N. Butler (NY times Obituary), posts this short article, Old Age has Value in Today’s Youth-Oriented Society by Ithaca College Gerontology Professor John A. Krout. Dr Krout also heads the Ithaca College Gerontology Institute.

Some communities are trying to solve the problem.

Read more »

July 27, 2010 Posted by Marti Weston | Activities of Daily Living (ADL's), Ageism, aging parents, Frustrations When Growing Older, Intergenerational Interaction, Respect | ADL's, adult children, ageism, aging parents, Eden Alternative, respect for seniors, senior parents, words matter | 2 Comments