The words we use and how we say them can be very powerful. We’ve all heard that saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me,” but is that really true? Words can wound people and words can heal them. They can build up self-esteem, and they can tear it down. Keeping this in mind, it’s important to be mindful about how we speak to others, and to think about if what we say and how we say it is really the message we meant to send.
We’ve all heard them, and perhaps even said them ourselves – those little “niceties” intended to make seniors feel less aged, such as, “Here you go, ‘young’ lady!” And while comments such as these may seem harmless, and even helpful to boost a senior’s self-esteem, recent studies are pointing to a polar opposite effect of these stereotypical comments and actions, resulting in changes as drastic as increased amyloid plaques in the brain: known Alzheimer’s biomarkers.
Conversely, older adults who were subjected to positive, respectful aging terms during a study exhibited consistently marked lower heart rates and blood pressure. “Positive age stereotypes act as a buffer to everyday stressors and challenges,” according to Becca Levy of the Yale School of Public Health.
There are many aging microaggressions that people say every day without meaning harm. However, in order to foster a trusting relationship and to help boost a senior’s self-esteem, it’s best to avoid phrases or words such as:
- Referring to older adults in as you would a child or youngster, such as “adorable” or “cute”
- Stereotyping seniors as being slow to adapt, forgetful, or tech-challenged
- Answering for them when they can do so on their own
- Speaking in a tone that could be seen as patronizing, such as with exaggerated slowness or using a high pitched voice
- Using words like “diapers” and “bibs” instead of “briefs” and “coverings”
Together, we can break through the stereotypical negatives of aging through encouraging and motivating our beloved elders with the respect and honor they so greatly deserve. We here at Independence-4-Seniors Home Care understand how important effective and positive communication is for our clients. Our caregiving team provides in-home care to seniors in the Hinsdale and Chicago area, allowing seniors to live at home, as independently as possible, for as long as possible.
Contact us for a free in-home care assessment and to see what we can offer.