A senior citizen is generally defined as an older adult who has reached a certain age, often associated with retirement and eligibility for specific benefits. In the United States, the most common age considered for senior citizenship is 65 years or older, which aligns with eligibility for Medicare and traditional retirement benefits
. However, some programs and organizations recognize senior status starting at age 55 or 60, especially for discounts and other perks
. The definition of a senior citizen can vary depending on context:
- Chronological age: Typically 65 and older, but sometimes as early as 55 or 62 depending on the program or cultural perspective
- Functional age: Based on an individual's ability to perform daily activities and their health status rather than just their chronological age
- Legal and policy perspective: Defined by government eligibility criteria for retirement benefits and healthcare programs like Social Security (starting at 62) and Medicare (starting at 65)
Culturally, senior citizens are often seen as experienced and wise individuals who have completed major life milestones such as raising a family or having a career
. Medically, they are more likely to face age-related health issues and may require assistance or caregiving
. In summary, while 65 is the most widely accepted age to be considered a senior citizen in the U.S., the designation can start earlier or be based on health and functional status. The term encompasses both an age milestone and a stage in life characterized by retirement, increased health care needs, and eligibility for various social benefits
