Words, Words, Words

I am a word person. In my definition of this term, it means I am attuned to and fascinated with the meaning, use, and implication of words. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that when I came of AARP age, I started looking for synonyms for “old.” I was less than thrilled to be called a “senior citizen” (although I am happy to accept the discounts attached to the term). To me, it seemed a bit condescending and placating in its application, akin to being patted on the head for having survived a large number of years. At least it is reasonably respectful, unlike many terms that are used to describe people who have reached the three-score-years mark.

As with any good article, a little research is required.  Having decided to write about what people of a certain age are called, I found many that were less than respectful. How about “over the hill?” I used that one tongue-in-cheek in the title of my last article for this paper. How about “on her last leg?”  Old biddy. Old bat.  Old foggy. A codger. A curmudgeon.  Old f***.  One I kind of like is “antiquated.”  That one’s kind of classy!

Have you ever thought about the difference between being called elderly and being referred to as an elder?  Same root word but a world of difference in application.The difference between being just old versus holding a place of honor for your accumulated wisdom, knowledge, and the skills acquired over many years. In some cultural/religious connotations, an elder is considered a leader, a guide, a mentor. When I grow up I want to be an elder.  

Back to my search for a term to call myself when I wanted to claim that 10% discount available to those over a certain number of years (50, 55, 60, 65, et al). I decided on “vintage.” Vintage can be defined as from a past era, as being valued for quality while representing a past cultural trend – this makes it more than a synonym for “old.”  So I decided to call myself a vintage citizen. I have had lots of positive comments when I have used this term with check-out people, friends, and family.  

I wasn’t sure this topic would be relevant to the demographic of West Salem.  Then I remembered Salem Town and Capital Manor and thought there must be folks nearing retirement age that might smile at this. One word of warning though: one family member reminded me that vintage wine can turn to vinegar.