aikuiset

Aikuiset is the Finnish plural form of aikuinen, meaning adults. In Finnish usage, aikuiset refers to people who have reached adulthood, as opposed to children or youths. The concept is both a legal and social category used in statistics, policy, and everyday language.

In Finland, the age of majority is generally 18. At this age, individuals typically gain full civil rights and responsibilities, such as the right to vote in elections, to sign legally binding contracts, and to live independently from guardians. Adult status also coincides with broader societal expectations regarding work, family life, and financial responsibility. Criminal liability is generally subject to adult statutes from the age of 18, though some offences involving younger persons may be treated differently under the law.

Demographically, aikuiset form a large and continuously changing portion of the population, usually defined by adulthood starting in the late teens or early twenties and extending through middle age and beyond. They participate in the workforce, pursue higher education or lifelong learning, form families, and engage in civic activities. Public policy often distinguishes between aikuiset and younger age groups when addressing topics such as health care, housing, pensions, and social services.

The term is used widely in official statistics, social policy, and everyday language. It also appears in phrases related to adult education (aikuiskoulutus), adult rights, and consumer and contractual contexts. Overall, aikuiset denotes individuals who, by age and social role, are considered capable of making other independent life choices.