How to say "Elderly" in Japanese

When translating "elderly" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between お年寄り and 高齢者. In Japanese, お年寄り (おとしより (otoshiyori)) is typically associated with "elderly person; senior citizen" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A polite and respectful term for an elderly person or senior citizen. It is generally preferred over 老人. On the other hand, 高齢者 (こうれいしゃ (kōreisha)) maps to "elderly person; senior citizen; aged" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to elderly people or senior citizens, often in the context of society, welfare, or demography. Often used as 高齢者福祉. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Elderly! "When we become elderly, let's still hold hands and walk lovey-dovey, Haruka-san!" ...っ! T-To plan our future until old age! B-But... since I also want to be next to you forever, I gladly accept that lifelong promise! dummy!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『こうれいしゃ（高齢者）よ！『お互いがおじいちゃんおばあちゃんの高齢者になっても、手を繋いでラブラブに歩きましょうね！』って…っ！老後まで一緒にいる誓いをするなんてバカ！…喜んで一生隣にいてあげるわよ！』. A literal translation of "elderly" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!