Which term refers to the condescending speech style toward older adults?

• A. Social Convoy
• B. Fictive Kin
• C. Elderspeak
• D. Empty Nest

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is how language can come across as patronizing toward older adults, which is described by the term elderspeak. Elderspeak involves speech that is simplifed, uses a higher pitch, a slower tempo, and terms of endearment or over-smoothing that treat older adults as if they are dependent or childlike. Such language can undermine autonomy, reinforce stereotypes about aging, and make older adults less willing to engage in conversations or decisions about their own lives.

The other terms describe different concepts: Social Convoy refers to the network of supportive relationships that accompanies a person through life; Fictive Kin denotes non-relatives who are treated as family; Empty Nest describes the stage after children have left home. None of these relate to the way we speak to or about older adults, which is why elderspeak is the correct term.