(no subject)
Oct. 7th, 2008 09:25 amhttp://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/07/us/07aging.html
Fascinating article on the harm of addressing seniors with elder-speak.
But what really struck me? The toll of words like "sweetie" and "dear" that the article notes are also used for children in a way that can also be disrespectful and isolating. What the article doesn't note: is that these words are used in the same way on women of all ages, and yes, it makes us angry and uncooperative too.
Fascinating article on the harm of addressing seniors with elder-speak.
But what really struck me? The toll of words like "sweetie" and "dear" that the article notes are also used for children in a way that can also be disrespectful and isolating. What the article doesn't note: is that these words are used in the same way on women of all ages, and yes, it makes us angry and uncooperative too.
As far North as Baltimore
Date: 2008-10-07 06:24 pm (UTC)I probably hear these things more than most people because some find it hard to learn my name. Methinks it's overthought, and should be addressed person to person.