Deliberate Politeness: Navigating Respect for Older Rudeness

Public discourse on treating older individuals with extra courtesy often veers towards extremes, tending to either advocate for unbridled patience or dismissal. A balanced approach, known as deliberate politeness, suggests that we should extend a bit more courtesy to older people who may exhibit rude or unreasonable behavior, akin to how we handle children and toddlers. However, safety and professionalism must come first.

The Case for Extra Courtesy

It is undeniable that older individuals may occasionally utter unpleasant remarks or display unreasonable behavior. In these instances, it is crucial to maintain a demeanor of patience and understanding. This deliberate politeness not only respects their age but also sets a positive example for others in society.

Empathy and Insight

Geriatrics, a specialized field of medicine, deals with the health and well-being of older adults, and many older individuals may suffer from physical ailments or cognitive issues that can affect their behavior. The less we react with anger or indifference, the more we can build a community that is empathetic and inclusive.

Here, it is essential to recognize that the elderly may occasionally have difficulty adapting to the fast-paced world around them. Their memories may be fading, and their understanding of social norms may not always align with the current societal pace. Patience and understanding can help bridge this gap.

Setting Boundaries

However, it would be remiss to suggest that civility should extend beyond a certain point. Elderly individuals, like anyone else, are also accountable for their behavior. Providing deliberate politeness should become a priority, but the ethics of courtesy also involve acknowledging the need for correction and consequences.

Imagine, for example, an older person who habitually speaks abrasively or behaves unreasonably. They must be guided towards the appropriate conduct without being subjected to unwarranted harshness. Education about the impact of their actions and gentle reminders of expected behavior can go a long way in calming them down and fostering a respectful environment.

Disease and Instability

The elderly are not immune to physical or mental health issues, which can exacerbate their behavior. If an elderly person is exhibiting behavior that poses a safety risk, especially if they seem to be a danger to themselves or others, it is important to take appropriate action. Professional assistance, such as medical consultation, may be necessary to address underlying health issues that contribute to this behavior.

Professionalism and Safety

There are instances where the safety of others must be the top priority. If an older person is making aggressive comments or displaying behavior that could lead to violence, safety measures must be taken. This might mean not further interacting with them, reporting to authorities, or ensuring that immediate safety precautions are in place.

It is important to distinguish between a situation where one can extend extra courtesy and one where safety comes first. In the latter, extreme measures, including but not limited to physical intervention, police involvement, or seeking medical intervention, should be prioritized to ensure that no harm is caused.

Conclusion: Balancing Respect and Safety

To summarize, treating older individuals with extra courtesy is a valuable social norm. However, it must be done with consideration for their behaviors and no compromise on professional and safety standards. By practicing deliberate politeness, we can create a more inclusive society that values respect and dignity for all, and we must also remember that this must be done within safe parameters and with due consideration for the safety of everyone involved.

Ultimately, the key is to find a balance that honors the inherent worth and dignity of every individual while protecting against unsafe or inappropriate behavior. This balanced approach will foster a more harmonious and understanding community.