To be generationally savvy in your communications, it can be equally important to know what not to say as knowing what to say. Many communications techniques, whether consciously used or not, are potentially hurtful and are often considered demeaning and disrespectful by older generations. Likewise, addressing an older adult with an exaggerated term such as “young lady” or “young man” tends to place unnecessary and often inappropriate emphasis on age. For example, the term young man is often received as old man.
Health care and social services professionals understand that elderspeak, and possibly other styles of communication, includes use of words and gestures that:
- are “based on stereotypes that older adults are less competent, so younger communication partners simplify their communication.
- attempts to clarify communication and alter the emotional tone of messages when communicating with older adults.
- may have serious health and wellness consequences for older adults, even though well-intended”.2
It is essential to consider how older adults feel as a result of communications. Communication styles, regardless of intent, often come across as belittling, demeaning, disrespectful, make people feel less competent, and provoke anger.3 In addition, older adults exposed to inappropriate communications styles may resist health care interventions and feel less trusting of the service provider.4