Show Respect to Older Adults

Older adults (kupuna) are today who you will become someday: human beings who play a pivotal role in our society.

Therefore, we should all appreciate and respect the wisdom, knowledge, experience, and grace kupuna offer to younger generations.

Treat older adults with respect, just like you want them to treat you, and just like you’ll want to be treated when you are their age.

Start by noticing older adults around you. Many retirees continue to work parttime or volunteer, still contributing to the community. Others take care of grandchildren, ensuring the next generation gets a solid foundation for life.

Be considerate of older adults’ wellbeing. People age differently, so some aging folks are healthy, while others live with illness or medical conditions. Regardless of health, every older adult deserves to be treated with respect.

Do not call someone of an older generation by his or her first name. Ask how he or she would like to be addressed, and honor that. Show respect when talking with older adults. Talk directly to them, not around them.

Never shout at an older adult, assuming that he or she is hearingor cognivitely-impaired. Being older doesn’t necessarily mean hard-ofhearing. Often, older adults are very wise, having “seen it all.” Make it a point to listen: they may have beneficial wisdom and sage advice for you.

Offer your seat to an older adult, whether on the bus, a waiting room, or anywhere else.

When driving an older adult, ask where he or she prefers to sit. Don’t assume they want to sit in the back. Provide assistance getting in and out of the car, a task that can be difficult for those with decreased strength.