What are the acceptable and unacceptable terminologies for referring to older adults, and what are some key facts about the aging population in Australia?
Understand the Problem
The text provides an overview of acceptable and unacceptable terminology for referring to older adults, outlines aspects of geriatrics, discusses statistics related to the aging population in Australia, and highlights health disparities, particularly among Indigenous Australians. It also mentions the aging workforce and issues within aged care services.
Answer
Preferred terms: older adults, older persons. Disfavored: seniors, elderly. By 2057, Australia's population aged 65+ is expected to reach 8.8 million.
Acceptable terminologies for referring to older adults include 'older adults,' 'older persons,' and 'older people,' while 'seniors' or 'elderly' are less preferred. In Australia, the number of people aged 65 and older is projected to rise substantially, with important societal and policy implications.
Answer for screen readers
Acceptable terminologies for referring to older adults include 'older adults,' 'older persons,' and 'older people,' while 'seniors' or 'elderly' are less preferred. In Australia, the number of people aged 65 and older is projected to rise substantially, with important societal and policy implications.
More Information
Using inclusive language when referring to older adults can help reduce age-related stereotypes and discrimination. The projected increase in the older population will require adjustments in healthcare, social services, and retirement policies.
Tips
A common mistake is using terms like 'elderly' which can carry negative connotations, instead of more neutral terms like 'older adults.'
Sources
- Age-inclusive language: Are you using it in your writing and everyday speech? - publichealth.wustl.edu
- Older Australians, Demographic profile - aihw.gov.au
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