Not at all....... if they are older than I am its usually just a word of endearment from their generation of which they mean no insult by.
Yes. Unless its an old lady or a family member.
I take a look at their age. If they are 45+ i don't take it as talking down to me.
Nobody has called me HOney or Sweetie. Yes, there are many who calls me dear. Most of the time I am concern about the answer or what they are saying.
If it were a coincident put down then yes and words or phrase can be miss used if the intent is wrong.
I'm sure its a double standard but as a guy no I don't if a woman says it to me. If I heard a guy say that to a women, I would think it would be insulting.
THAT'S what it is! I knew I hated that!!! aaahhh!! I'd rather be called 'Ma'am'...even though I hate that too.