People and communities Standards for age-friendly communications

Language

The language we use is highly important and affects how are messages and selves are received.

Tips

  • If age is relevant, use respectful language – a numeral instead of ‘elderly’.
  • Make all content accessible.
  • Use plain language.
  • Be positive – older people play a rich role in the city’s life.

Examples

We use:

  • Ageing
  • Older people
  • We or us
  • Valued
  • Experienced
  • ‘Children from ages 5 to 15 are welcome.’
  • ‘Survey respondents were between ages 60 and 75.’

We don't use:

  • Senior people
  • Old people
  • The elderly
  • Pensioners or OAPs
  • Frail
  • ‘Them and us’.