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 Northport, Venice, Nokomis and Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels VENICE, FL
871 Venetia Bay Blvd #201
Venice, FL 34285
Phone: 941-496-9600
NR30211676

Serving Northport, Venice, Nokomis and Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels VENICE, FL
871 Venetia Bay Blvd #201
Venice, FL 34285
Phone: 941-496-9600
NR30211676
We arrange senior home care services in Englewood, Nokomis, North Port, Osprey, Placida, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Rotonda West, and Venice, Florida. We help seniors stay in their Venice home instead of moving.


"The challenges of getting to and from appointments are not insignificant for many residents in the SWFL/North Port/Sarasota area. Visiting Angels is a superb resource when a bit of extra help or companionship is needed. Everything from intake to scheduling to billing and payment is convenient, professional, and backed by caring staff at all levels. The service is not cheap, however, the peace of mind and level of care exhibited is worth every dollar to us. I highly recommend this Visiting Angels office, they have lifted a great anxiety from our shoulders!"

– Sheri G. (More reviews here)

Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐