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Who Are They?
Baby Boomers, defined as those born between 1946 and 1964, constitute a significant portion of the population and continue to play a crucial role in the economy.
As this generation advances in age, they are expected to remain a dominant force in the workforce, with many choosing to extend their careers beyond traditional retirement. This age group is notably active, with more than half engaging in regular physical activities such as running, hiking, and cycling, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Physical Activity Council also reports that Baby Boomers represent approximately one-third of the fitness industry’s clientele. On the employment front, a recent Washington Post article titled “The Boomers Are Retiring—See Why That’s Bad News for Workers” explores the ramifications of Baby Boomers on today’s workforce. “For the last five decades, Baby Boomers have moved through the American job market with considerable influence.
As they retire, the workforce is aging at an unprecedented rate. “With their exit, the ratio of workers to retirees will decline sharply, potentially straining critical programs like Social Security and Medicare, which depend on current workers to support retirees.”
Impact on Healthcare The Baby Boomer generation is also significantly impacting the U.S. healthcare system. According to EncompassHealth.com, “The U.S. is currently witnessing a surge in Medicare enrollments, driven by the aging Baby Boomer population. Projections from the U.S. Census Bureau indicate that by 2030, there will be more older adults than children for the first time in U.S. history as Baby Boomers reach Medicare eligibility.”
Their Characteristics Embracing Technology:
Baby Boomers are increasingly adopting new technologies.
Cautious Innovation: They approach newer technologies, such as artificial intelligence, with some skepticism.
Streaming Trends: There is a growing trend among Baby Boomers to use streaming services. Generational Wealth: This cohort holds a substantial share of generational wealth. Brand Loyalty: Baby Boomers prefer to shop with brands they trust.
Customer Service Expectations: They place high value on exceptional customer service.
Online Shopping Preferences: They enjoy online shopping but favor an experience that mirrors in-store interactions.
Aging in Place: A significant number of Baby Boomers are choosing to age in place, opting for home-based healthcare solutions.