Blog #1
Why you won't see the words 'Elderly', 'Elders' and 'Seniors' on my website.
Language to avoid
Healthcare professionals should lead by example when it comes to the language that we use when we are discussing our clients. Language should be free from judgement and be reflective of the lived experience of that individual.
The British Geriatric Society suggests the following:
The words 'Elderly', 'Elders', 'Seniors', 'Pensioners' and the 'Aged' should be replaced by 'Older people/person/patient/client/adults/individual's'.
https://www.bgs.org.uk/preferred-language-when-referring-to-older-people-in-a-health-context
Why this is important?
In addition to using respectful and thoughtful language, it is important to avoid broad generalisations or value judgements about the lives and experiences of older adults.
As with people at any stage of life, older adults are individuals with varied backgrounds, beliefs, priorities, and ways of living. When discussing or considering older people, be mindful not to make assumptions that are unsupported or based on stereotypes.
For more information:
If you are interested in reading and learning more about the Older population and how Physiotherapy can vastly help, please take a look at my website: internal://3239710a-6c7b-45cc-87b5-5119bd344c07 or on my Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/safemotionphysio_athome/