This article is a comprehensive description of elderspeak, its harmful effects, and how to avoid using it.
Elderspeak is a communication style characterised by simplified language, patronising tone, and infantilising terms, often used when speaking to older adults.
Elderspeak is disrespectful and can negatively impact older adults’ self-esteem and wellbeing.
In 1986, UK researchers Gillian Cohen and Dorothy Faulkner coined the word “elderspeak” to describe a patronising manner of speaking to older people.
Dr Marlene Krasovitsky, a consultant to the World Health Organisation’s Global Campaign to Combat Ageism and board member of Australia’s anti-ageism advocate body EveryAGECounts, describes elderspeak as a form of “benevolent ageism”.
Characteristics of Elderspeak
Simplified language: Using shorter sentences, simpler vocabulary and basic grammar
Patronising tone: Speaking in a high-pitched, singsong voice or using overly endearing terms like “honey,” “sweetie” or “dearie”
Collective pronouns: Using “we” instead of “you” potentially implying a lack of individual autonomy
Exaggerated intonation and slow speech: Speaking slowly and deliberately with exaggerated emphasis on certain words
Repetition: Repeating phrases or questions even when they have been understood
Closed ended questions: Using questions that limit the older adult’s ability to respond freely
Loud volume: Speaking loudly even when not necessary, potentially due to assumptions about hearing loss
“Research tells us that benevolent ageism is the most entrenched form of ageism because we tend to think of older people as frail, sick, dependent and passive. Elderspeak diminishes and devalues. It erodes autonomy and voice and feeds the perception that older people are passive onlookers to life, basically irrelevant.” says Krasovitsky.
Harmful effects of Elderspeak
Infantilisation: It can make older adults feel like children, leading to feelings of shame and frustration
Negative self-perception: It can contribute to a decline in self-esteem and a negative perception of ageing
Reduced communication: Older adults may become less likely to participate in conversations and express their needs
Resistiveness to care: Elderspeak has been linked to increased resistance to care in individuals with dementia
Ageism: Elderspeak reinforces ageist stereotypes and can perpetuate negative attitudes towards older adults
How to avoid Elderspeak
Speak to older adults with respect: Use a normal tone of voice and avoid talking down to them
Use clear and appropriate language: Communicate in a way that is tailored to the individual without being condescending
Listen attentively: Pay attention to what older adults are saying and respond to their needs
Encourage participation: Ask open ended questions and allow older adults to express themselves freely
Be mindful of your tone and body language: Speak in a calm, respectful manner and maintain eye contact
Focus on the individual, not their age: Treat older adults as individuals with unique experiences and perspectives
By practising respect and recognising individuality we can help older people maintain their dignity and independence, fostering positive interactions and promoting their overall wellbeing.
If you notice that someone else is using Elderspeak, it should be politely pointed out. Many people don’t realise what they’re doing. Correcting the issue as early as possible is the best way to ensure that all seniors are given the respect they deserve.
For older people experiencing Elderspeak
if you feel comfortable, ask the person to change the way they are speaking with you. They may not be aware that their manner can be harmful. Alternatively, a trusted friend, carer or family member may be able to speak on your behalf.
Elderspeak is just one example of ageism, which is the stereotyping and discrimination against individuals or groups based on their age.
As of 1 November 2025, the Statement of Rights in the new Aged Care Act specifies the right to safe, quality and fair funded aged care services. Under the new Aged Care Act, service providers are legally obligated to uphold these rights. It explicitly defines a ‘person-centred’ care system where older people are treated as unique individuals, including:
Being treated with dignity and respect
Receiving safe, fair, equitable and non-discriminatory treatment
Having the individual’s identity, culture, spirituality and diversity valued and supported
Providing aged care services that are culturally safe and appropriate, trauma aware and healing informed