aînés

Aînés is a French term that refers to older people or elder generations. The word derives from the adjective aîné, meaning older or elder; the feminine form is aînée, and the plural is aînés. In common usage, aînés can denote the elder members of a family, such as the eldest sibling, or the older generation within a community. The term is often used with neutral or respectful connotations, though its exact sense can vary by context and region.

In family and cultural contexts, aînés are frequently associated with experience, tradition, and continuity. They may play a caregiving or mentoring role within families and communities, preserving history and guiding younger relatives. The concept of aînés is linked to kinship and generation rather than to institutional status.

In modern society, discussions of aînés intersect with aging, health care, and social policy. As populations age, the number of aînés rises in many countries, influencing pensions, healthcare services, housing, and mobility needs. Programs aimed at aînés often focus on autonomy, safety, accessibility, and opportunities for social participation, while promoting respect and inclusion across generations.

See also terms commonly used for this group include personnes âgées and senior citizens. The distinction between aînés and other aging-related terms can reflect nuances in emphasis on family and generational roles versus general age.