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The resources consulted for this guide and noted below, suggest many preferred terms for individuals who are 65 years or older as well as describing older adults by specific age range. Other suggestions include avoiding terms that valorize longevity or describe a medical condition as if it were part of an individual’s identity. Examples include afflicted, suffering, stricken. Using the term “diagnosed with” offers a more accurate and people first description. Other examples include the term senile, which is widely considered outdated and should be replaced with “dementia” or “dementia” due to Alzheimer’s disease.4   

Euphemisms, which some would argue are less offensive, are often used to describe older adults. Examples include “golden years,” “senior citizen,” etc. Unless advised otherwise by donors of collections, people first language should be the first choice when using descriptive language. Sub-division by ethnic group, location, or chronological data helps add specificity for researchers.  

In instances where titles of collections, publications, etc., contain outdated terms, we recommend using a processing note, or a footnote to provide context and rationale for leaving the term as is.5

As emphasized throughout this guide, archivists, catalogers, and others involved in descriptive practices should solicit the opinion of donors and use their preferences. 

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