In Italy the elderly are greatly respected.
an-ZIA-ni — stress on second syllable. 'Anziani' = elderly (noun/adjective).
Understand this cultural value when interacting with older Italians. Always use 'Lei' with elderly people unless invited to do otherwise. Offer your seat on public transport. Speak with patience.
Italian respect for the elderly ('rispetto per gli anziani') is deeply rooted in Catholic values and family culture. The grandmother ('nonna') holds enormous authority in Italian families. Cutting in front of elderly people in queues, speaking impatiently or ignoring them is deeply offensive to nearby Italians.
Si accomodi, le lascio il posto.
Please sit down, I'll give you my seat.
Offering your seat on public transport — expected for the elderly.
Devo aiutarla?
Do you need help?
Offering assistance to an elderly person who seems to need it.
Parla con il 'Lei' con le persone anziane.
Use 'Lei' with elderly people.
The formal register is essentially mandatory with the elderly.
The 'nonna' in Italian culture is almost sacred — she is the keeper of recipes, family memory and moral authority. 'Come faceva mia nonna' (as my grandmother used to do) is the ultimate endorsement of authenticity in Italian food, craftsmanship and values.