The term ‘baby boomers’ is a demographic cohort, referring to the individuals born between 1946 to 1964. This cohort saw the rise of affluence and host of technological and economic developments post World War II.
Boomers are often associated with the counterculture of the 1960s, the civil rights movement and the “second-wave” feminist cause of the 1970s. People often take it for granted that the succeeding generation will be “better off” than the one before it. When the ‘Generation X’ came along right after the boomers, they would be the first generation to enjoy a lesser quality of life than the generation preceding it.Baby boomers have seen a relatively vigorous growth in comparison of millennial in all fields and tend to be one of the biggest generations which co- exists with the millennial in today’s day and age.
Characteristics:
The ‘age wave’ theory developed by Ken Dychtwald refers to a massive population by the change in demographic forces of the baby boom during the middle twentieth century, increase in the life expectancy and the decline in fertility rates in the later 20thand early 21stcenturies. The theory also predicted economic slowdown when the boomers started retiring during the years 2007 – 2009.
In the early 1980s, baby boomers came into being the largest voting demographic and a survey found that nearly a third of baby boomer multimillionaires polled in the U.S. would prefer to pass on their inheritance to charities rather than pass it down to their children. 57% believed that it was important for each generation to be independent, whereas 54% believed it was more important to invest in their children’s future.
The sudden boom in marketing caused by the existence of a huge demographic cohort brought in newer solutions, but also newer problems. Rise in health issues as a result of neglect and bad lifestyle choices saw an increase in the number of and types of health concerns.
Economically, baby boomers were presented with more purchasing power and an even greater number of choices. Though this created a healthy trade environment, it came with its own consequences of splurging and unwanted luxury.
Caring for the ageing baby boomers:
Most of the baby boomers are well beyond the age of 60 and deep into the phase of senescence. Their lifestyle choices, experiences and beliefs shape their ageing as well. When caring for baby boomers keep in mind,
1. Their economic beliefs and patterns. Baby boomers who were into big time spending cannot do with minimalist choices. This reflects on their psychological behaviour as well.
2. Having held the attention of media and marketing activities, baby boomers are far more advanced in technological pursuits. Especially, the latest born baby boomers. Empower them with technology wherever required.
3. Most baby boomers believed in an independent lifestyle. Keeping them monitored or confined to the houses will not work. Give them freedom and access to follow their passion.
4. Health is something that even young children have to watch out for these days. Baby boomers are no exception. They have been through the same lavish lifestyle and bad lifestyle choices. Encourage them to monitor and care of health by themselves.
5. Ageing is a process that completely changes what once was. Make your home or elders’ living spaces senior-friendly so they can move about freely.
6. Self-made baby boomers do not like to be under the guidance of their children. Let them live according to their will. If it is independence support them.
7. Though baby boomers was the cohort that saw dramatic changes in all aspects, they are still humans at heart. Display your love and appreciation for them openly.
Care for those who once cared for us. Embrace elders for who they are. Be empathetic and kind. Often, a small gesture goes a long way. Comfort and kindness are solace in the process of ageing. Reason and patience work better than force and compulsion. All individuals are entitled to better life, but also their own preferences and desires. Respect them.
