Elderly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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elderly
[ˈɛldərli ]
Definitions
care
Having lived for a relatively long time; no longer young.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| elderly |
Suitable for respectful or formal contexts when referring to people who are generally 65 years and older. Often used in social and healthcare settings.
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| older |
A general term that can be used to compare ages but is less specific and can refer to people of various age ranges. It is a neutral, less formal term.
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| senior |
Often used to describe older adults, particularly those eligible for senior discounts, benefits, or in a retirement context. It can also refer to higher rank or experience in a professional setting.
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| aged |
Typically used to describe someone who is old, often in statistical or demographic contexts. It can also describe the age process or the effect of aging. It sometimes has a slightly clinical or impersonal tone.
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Examples of usage
- The elderly population is growing rapidly in many countries.
- She works with elderly patients in the nursing home.
society
People who are old collectively; the elderly.
Synonyms
old people, older adults, seniors.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| elderly |
Use 'elderly' to respectfully refer to people who are advanced in age. It is often used in formal contexts such as healthcare, social services, and official documents.
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Examples of usage
- The organization provides support for the elderly in our community.
- Many nursing homes cater to the needs of the elderly.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, elderly individuals are highly respected and often play significant roles in family and community decisions.
- Some cultures celebrate elders with specific festivals, honoring their wisdom and life experiences.
Health and Wellbeing
- Studies show that maintaining social connections and engaging in physical activities can enhance the wellbeing of elderly individuals.
- Elders are often considered a vulnerable group, with increased risks for health issues such as dementia and heart disease.
Literature and Media
- Many literary works, from classics to modern stories, feature elderly characters as sources of wisdom and guidance, influencing younger protagonists.
- Movies often depict elderly people as mentors or unexpected heroes, showcasing their resilience and life lessons.
Psychology
- Research indicates that older adults often report higher levels of happiness compared to younger individuals, possibly due to life experience and perspective.
- The concept of 'ageism' highlights societal biases against elderly individuals, often treating them as less capable or relevant.
Origin of 'elderly'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'elderly' comes from the Old English 'eldra', which means 'older' or 'aged'.
- In Middle English, the term evolved to 'elderli', which referred to those who were older in comparison to others.
The word 'elderly' originated in the late 15th century from the Middle English 'eldirly' meaning 'somewhat old'. It is derived from the Old English 'ealdorlic', which combines 'ealdor' (old age) and '-lic' (having the form or character of). Over time, 'elderly' has evolved to describe individuals or groups of people who are advanced in age.
See also: elder, elderliness, elders.