elderly person

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "elderly person" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone over the age of 65. For example: The elderly person was walking slowly with a cane.

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ask the elderly person for their personal preferences.

WikiHow

But nursing an elderly person.

The Guardian - Music

What could an elderly person learn from watching this film?

The New York Times

Or if an elderly person slips and falls?

The New York Times

The blunt question: Should a frail, elderly person receive CPR?

The New York Times

It could be an elderly person or someone with kids".

The New York Times

Travel with an elderly person can be even more complicated.

The New York Times

The term "elderly person" means a person who is at least 62 years of age.

Cornell University

Sometimes theirs is the only voice an elderly person living alone hears regularly.

The New York Times

If you suspect an elderly person is being targeted by a scam, do something about it.

The Washington Post

There's but a single elderly person in the primary cast, so don't strain yourself.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about elderly individuals, consider the context and choose a phrase that is respectful and appropriate. "Elderly person" is generally acceptable, but alternatives like "older adult" or "senior citizen" may be preferred in formal settings.

Common error

Be mindful of using overly simplistic or infantilizing language when addressing or describing elderly individuals. Using terms of endearment like "dear" or speaking in a slow, loud voice can be perceived as disrespectful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "elderly person" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It identifies a person who is considered to be in an advanced stage of life. Ludwig provides examples from various contexts demonstrating its common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Wiki

29%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "elderly person" is a common and generally acceptable way to refer to someone in their later years. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used. While alternatives like "older adult" or "senior citizen" may be preferred in formal contexts, "elderly person" serves as a neutral and informative term across various settings. Be mindful of avoiding patronizing language and stereotypes when discussing elderly individuals. The phrase's frequency is high, particularly in News & Media and Wiki sources, demonstrating its relevance in contemporary discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Senior citizen

More formal and commonly used in official contexts.

Older adult

A respectful and neutral term, often preferred in healthcare.

Aged person

Slightly more formal and less common in everyday speech.

Elderly individual

More descriptive and formal, suitable for written communication.

Old person

Direct but can be perceived as insensitive depending on context.

Pensioner

Focuses on retirement status; specific to those receiving a pension.

Golden ager

Euphemistic and less frequently used; implies a positive view of aging.

Elder

Often used in specific cultural or community contexts.

An individual of advanced age

Very formal and clinical; rarely used in casual conversation.

A person in their twilight years

Poetic and indirect; implies the later stages of life.

FAQs

What is the definition of "elderly person"?

An "elderly person" is generally defined as someone over the age of 65. However, the term can also refer to someone who is experiencing age-related physical or cognitive decline.

What are some synonyms for "elderly person"?

Synonyms for "elderly person" include "senior citizen", "older adult", "aged person", and "elderly individual". The best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it offensive to use the term "elderly person"?

The term "elderly person" is generally considered respectful, but it's important to be mindful of the context and individual preferences. Some people may prefer "older adult" or "senior citizen".

How can I write about elderly individuals respectfully?

When writing about elderly individuals, avoid stereotypes and focus on their individuality and contributions. Use respectful language and avoid terms that are patronizing or infantilizing. Also ensure you're up to date on the correct use of language and you're aware of how the language surrounding age is evolving.