Introduction
Human beings will grow from one stage of life to another. The final one is that of old age and it is characterized by sagging skins, spots, and dull tone. While this is a natural process, this paper explains why people use the word “aging” in a derogatory manner.
Aging and Use
Aging is a natural process that human beings should appreciate. Nikolaev and Pavlova (2016) refer to this natural occurrence as the accumulation of psychological, emotional, physical, and mental changes over a period of time. All people will undergo the process and eventually die. Normally, the word is used to describe individuals who are above 60 years of age. People can also use it to examine and describe how old age is associated with various illnesses, such as arthritis, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer.
Several reasons explain why many people continue to use the above word in a derogatory manner. Firstly, the norm has emerged whereby elderly persons receive little or no support. In many cases, individuals will apply specific terms to explain how aged individuals are incapable of pursuing their goals (Giasson, Queen, Larkina, & Smith, 2017). Secondly, the negative image many people associate with aging explains why they use the word in a derogatory manner. Thirdly, labeling aging as a risk factor for diseases also explains why this is the case. Fourthly, the absence of powerful strategies to encourage more citizens to live harmoniously with the elderly complicates the situation.
Conclusion
Human beings should appreciate the idea that they will eventually age and learn to respect all senior citizens. They can benefit from guidelines aimed at promoting positive relationships between the elderly and the young. The use of the word in a respectful manner will empower more senior citizens to pursue their aims successfully.
References
Giasson, H. L., Queen, T. L., Larkina, M., & Smith, J. (2017). Age group differences in perceived age discrimination: Associations with self-perceptions of aging. The Gerontologist, 57(2), S160-S168. Web.
Nikolaev, B., & Pavlova, N. (2016). Age discrimination in the US higher education and employment. International Journal of Environmental & Science Education, 11(18), 10875-10883.