What Age Is Considered Elderly?

However, some people feel that the term elderly is used to describe someone who is feeble and unable to care for himself. "Elder" is also a word that denotes respect, as young people are often told to respect their elders. In the early 20th century, people generally preferred being called elderly as opposed to old. These days, it is generally agreed that older individuals who are vibrant or active may not want to be called elderly.