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Elderspeak: What It Is and Why It Can Be Harmful

Elderspeak: What It Is and Why It Can Be Harmful

“Elderspeak” is a unique pattern of speech – similar to baby talk – that younger individuals often adopt when speaking to the elderly. The tone of elderspeak can seem condescending, express unwanted pity, and potentially foster resentment among older adults.

The characteristics of elderspeak include:

  • Slow and careful speech
  • Simplified grammar
  • Assumption of helplessness
  • Exaggerated affectionate words (“sweetie,” “honey,” “dear,” “buddy”)
  • The use of “we” or “us” instead of “you”

Many older adults tolerate this treatment daily, even when they’re perfectly capable of understanding normal speech patterns. This degrading interaction can be harmful to their mental and physical well-being.

Roots of Elderspeak

When we speak to each other, we instinctively modify our speech to better convey our words. In situations where communication could be difficult, we automatically use simple forms of speech so someone with perceived limited ability can comprehend.

While younger people may not deliberately patronize older adults, they may use elderspeak subconsciously based on their belief of the elderly’s ability (or lack thereof) to understand and respond.

Effects of Elderspeak

Sing-song tones, exaggerated pronunciation, and baby talk are confusing tactics that distort messages conveyed to seniors. These techniques actually decrease comprehension.

Understandably, older people in full possession of their faculties are unhappy when addressed as children. Elderspeak’s negative effects can include:

  • Depression
  • Resentment
  • Low self-esteem
  • Embarrassment
  • Loneliness

Elderspeak may lead older adults to harbor increased anger and refuse to cooperate with assisted care. A baby talk speech pattern can be an attack on their dignity and self-worth. 

Sensitive and Thoughtful Speaking

Here are some suggestions when speaking with older adults who have communication limitations or challenges:

  • Always speak respectfully
  • Use simple sentences to express complex ideas in bite-size parts
  • Repeat key points you wish to communicate, paraphrasing and changing the structure
  • Simplify your speech in favor of explicitness - communicate concrete information directly
  • Speak normally but distinctly (for those hard of hearing, speak louder but don’t change the tone or pitch of your voice)
  • Speak in a way that respects the dignity of the senior you are addressing

Serving Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Bayshore Gardens, Ellenton, Lakewood Ranch, Longboat Key, Palmetto, Parrish and Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels BRADENTON, FL
5110 26th St W
Bradenton, FL 34207
Phone: 941-758-4500
941-758-4505
Fax: 941-296-8717
NR30211771

Serving Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Bayshore Gardens, Ellenton, Lakewood Ranch, Longboat Key, Palmetto, Parrish and Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels BRADENTON, FL
5110 26th St W
Bradenton, FL 34207
Phone: 941-758-4500
941-758-4505
Fax: 941-296-8717
NR30211771
Providing home care referrals throughout Manatee County, including Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Lakewood Ranch, Parrish, and Longboat Key. Let us help you by referring professional senior caregivers for your needs, including:



"If I could have had 10 stars, Visiting Angels would have gotten a 10. Working with Visiting Angels was a perfect experience. Jerri-Marie Turner was fantastic and guided us along the way. Lisa Wheeler (our angel) was so caring, companionate and a perfect fit for my Uncle. If the need arose again, I would use VA in a heartbeat. Thank you for all you did, it was perfect service."

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