For the most part, these Boomers are healthier, better educated and wealthier than previous generations of retirees, and that means they are likely to live longer. Our society will now experience, for the first time, a large group in the senior stage of life that will extend for 25, 30, maybe even 40 years. And the pressure is mounting for individual Boomers and for society at large to begin preparing for the complex transformations that this aging demographic will create.
Part of the complexity involves the great diversity of the senior population. Boomers do not view themselves as “old” and they cringe at being called “seniors”. Undoubtedly, a change in terminology will be required. In its “A Portrait of Seniors in Canada”, Statistics Canada notes that, “(o)ver the coming years, especially as the first Baby Boomers turn 65 years old, it is possible that a new definition of "senior" will replace the current one. What it generally means to be a senior, for seniors themselves as well as for society in general, could go through an important redefinition.”
It is already evident that the needs, life situations and circumstances of a 50 year old are greatly different than those of the 75 year old, and of the 95 year old. Housing, employment, family and social relationships, health, mobility and finances look very different for each of these age groups. It is, therefore, impractical to view the “senior” population as homogeneous.
The ultimate goal within our society should be to create an environment in which Gen-50plus can continue to lead an active, healthy lifestyle and make meaningful contributions in their communities. This requires such considerations as age-friendly transportation services, a range of housing options, opportunities for social participation and civic involvement, relevant and accessible health and community services as well as opportunities for learning, personal growth and physical activity.
Individual Boomers also must plan for their own personal transition to the older stages of senior-hood. Experts now view the Gen-50plus years as Stage 3 in the life cycle, and emphasize the need for these adults to make plans, set goals and understand what the joys and challenges of this phase can be. Some questions to consider include: What kind of housing will I need? How long will I continue to work? How will I pass the time when I retire? What can I do to maintain my health? How can I maintain an active social life? What kind of lifestyle is affordable, so I can make my money last to the end of my life?
Planning for this transition empowers individuals to feel more in control of their circumstances and to make life changing decisions based on choices rather than in response to a crisis. Like every other stage of life, the Boomer/senior years offer new opportunities that are personally exhilarating and fulfilling. With a can-do and upbeat attitude, Gen-50plus may very well transform the way our society views aging and the role and value of seniors in our communities. They’ll certainly have the numbers to be an influential force.
