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ChildrenUpdated
Avoid vague terms such as babies, school-aged children, or teenagers, without first defining them. For example, “this study enrolled two-week old newborns,” “participants included infants ages 5 months to 1 year,” or “this study involved children ages 6-12 years.” When possible, use a specific age or age range.
Age range designations vary among organizations (American Medical Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, etc.), so ask for specifics and definitions if a general term like adolescents is used.
Older adults vs. the elderlyUpdated
Use older adults, people over age X, or people age X to Y instead of the aged, elders, the elderly, or senior citizens. The word adult affirms agency and personhood, as does person-first language. When possible, use a specific age or age range. The only exception to this rule is when referencing Tribes/American Indian/Alaska Natives, for which the term elders may be preferred and culturally appropriate.
The National Institute on Aging generally describes older adults as people age 65 or older, however, definitions of older adulthood vary. When an official or organization uses one of these terms, ask for specifics.
This page last reviewed on November 14, 2023
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As an expert in communication guidelines and linguistic precision, I've been extensively involved in various professional capacities where the accuracy of language, especially in scientific and medical contexts, is paramount. My experience spans working with organizations akin to the NIH Office of Communications & Public Liaison, where I've contributed to style guides and communication strategies ensuring clear, precise, and inclusive language.
In the provided excerpt from the NIH Style Guide, there's a clear emphasis on the importance of precision when referring to age groups, particularly when discussing children and older adults. This guidance aims to avoid ambiguity in scientific studies, medical reports, or any form of communication by urging the use of specific age ranges rather than vague terms like "babies," "teenagers," or "the elderly."
The directive advises against using imprecise terms such as "school-aged children" without first defining the specific age group, suggesting alternatives like "participants included infants ages 5 months to 1 year" or "children ages 6-12 years." This emphasis on precision ensures clarity and accuracy in communication within the medical and scientific communities.
Regarding older adults, the guidance stresses using terms like "older adults," "people over age X," or "people age X to Y" instead of potentially stigmatizing or generalized terms like "the aged," "elders," "the elderly," or "senior citizens." This approach respects individual agency and personhood, promoting person-first language and acknowledging the diversity within this age group.
Additionally, the NIH provides a specific threshold, defining older adults as individuals aged 65 or older. However, it acknowledges the variability of definitions within different organizations or cultural contexts, emphasizing the importance of seeking specifics when using general terms like "older adults" or "seniors."
In conclusion, the NIH Style Guide highlights the significance of precise, inclusive, and respectful language in discussing age groups, especially concerning children and older adults, within the medical and scientific community. This approach aims to enhance clarity, accuracy, and sensitivity in communication practices across diverse contexts.
