At What Age Do You Become a “Senior”?

Is there a precise age when you suddenly go from being an “active man” to an “old man”? At exactly what point does the word senior start sticking to you? 60? 65? 70? Who knows. This vagueness annoys some, reassures others, but it raises a real question: can a number alone define a person? Spoiler: no. And yet, our society keeps using it as a criterion… for everything. When in reality, it’s often other signs that should be the real markers.

A “Senior” for Public Transit…

The word senior has no universal definition. In some government programs, the reference age is 65 (e.g., senior homes, free transit passes). In other cases, it’s 60. In insurance, some products target those 55+. And in taxation? The thresholds vary again. We end up with a word that means everything… and nothing at the same time. This confusion directly impacts how services are offered, targeted, and even perceived.

And honestly, it’s easy to see why people are confused. One day, you’re an active senior, the next, you just qualify for a transit card. Want to book an organized trip for seniors? Too young. But at the hospital? Oh no, there you’re well within the “elderly” category. Welcome to the administrative bingo of aging.

A Word That (Sometimes Too Much) Changes How We See Ourselves

Beyond forms and paperwork, the term “senior” has a significant psychological impact. For some, it’s recognition, a symbolic milestone, even a relief. For others, it’s a slap in the face. Being labeled as a senior can trigger a real identity rejection, as if you were suddenly placed in a “final stage” box. This shift in status affects self-esteem, how one perceives their abilities… and can even accelerate withdrawal.

Want an example? Ask someone at dinner if they’re “a senior.” Watch them choke, then say, “Come on! I’m only 67, I still run my 5 km every day!” — Yes, Marc. But you also ordered a backlit magnifier to read your menu.