The term Elder, or its equivalent in another language, is used in several countries and organizations to indicate a position of authority. This usage is usually derived from the notion that the oldest members of any given group are the wisest, and are thus the most qualified to rule, provide counsel or serve the said group in some other capacity. They often serve as oral repositories of their culture's traditional knowledge, morals, and values.
Elder is a role in a polity or community. Elderhood is the condition or quality of being an elder, the state of being of advanced age and in leadership roles.[citation needed]
Sometimes, the role is recognized by a ceremony or milestone, while other times it is the oldest person in a group. Elders are generally expected to guide younger people, share life experiences, foster unity, and act as leaders of their communities.[citation needed]
Another example is the vocational mentor, who guides apprentices with tools of sponsorship, advocacy, and skills demonstration. The mentor serves to facilitate creativity in apprentices by passing on traditional methods pertaining to their occupation.[citation needed]
In governmental contexts, elders sometimes serve as members of an advisory body for other leaders, such as kings and presidents, as a council of elders. This gives them power and prestige. Due to this, elderhood of this variety is generally considered to be an aspirational role in many communities.[citation needed]
An example of elderhood is the role of the matriarch. In societies with matriarchs, women Elders tend to be leaders of their families. Matriarchs are involved in creating and regenerating communities and families. They raise issues and opinions that are unseen into policy through changing both systemic political policy and building everyday participation. They use their moral authority to push for policy change by bringing disparate communities together, often using personal storytelling and speaking on behalf of their communities. Matriarchs are considered holders of wisdom and guardians of their community and its culture, customs and religion. They are expected to support and empower their families. Matriarchs can also be political leaders governing households, economies and matriclans.
There are long-established conceptualizations of elders on the Internet. They are typically established individuals who are outbound, often due to unwanted changes they cannot prevent.