Published: January 18, 2008 12:31 am            

Miracles in Boomer-ville

BREAKING NEWS … according to reliable sources, 60 is now the new 40! Yes, yes, yes … it’s better than the Fountain of Youth!

And another compelling fact for the boomers – according to AOL News, “The oldest boomers are in better shape for retirement than thought.” About three million boomers will celebrate their 62nd birthday during 2008 and most are in relatively good financial shape – in other words and according to an old favorite tune, “If you’ve got the money, honey, I’ve got the time.” Wonderful, isn’t it?

Recently I read an interesting commentary from a well-known musical director, Galen P. Darrough. Dr. Darrough is the Director of Choral Activities from the University of Northern Colorado and an astute observer of the participation and eagerness of people when pertaining to his choral ensembles. He states, “…some people believe that older adults are frail, have not desire or capacity for musical learning or relearning, prefer passive rather than active involvement, and prefer sedate musical styles over others. Research indicates, however, that when adults are treated as functioning individuals, they make a commitment to musical development.”

Thank you, Dr. Darrough and I would add – not only does this mindset pertain to music, but also for most boomers and the beyond age group, the word commitment is not a new idea. Commitment has brought the three million strong boomers to a happy and content retirement – eager to march forward with a lifestyle as a strong contributor to society.

There are many misconceptions about those who have reached the boomer age and beyond. It is interesting to read a report initiated by Minnesota State University:

1. An old person.

“Old” is mostly how you view it. An older person is simply one who has lived a long time.

1. Like an old dog unable to learn new tricks.

Perhaps you can’t teach a dog new tricks, but let’s talk about humans instead. Older persons can be educated and can enjoy learning new things.

1. Past their prime.

Plenty of older adults contribute to society in a meaningful way, as they grow older. Labeling a group as “past their prime” ignores individual differences that exist among people.

1. Less intelligent.

If good health continues to old age, thus there is no disease processes in existence that effect mental functioning, the old have the advantage of adding their experiences into situations that can improve overall intelligence.

If you would like to read the complete article, it is posted online at http://sbs.mnsu.edu/gerontology/resources/misconceptions.html

So, there is no need to worry, because the boomers are in the driver’s seat. An American turns fifty every eight seconds and according to AARP, that’s more than ten thousand people everyday. By 2015, those aged fifty and older will represent forty-five percent of the US population and by 2030, the 65-plus population will double to about 71.5 million, again according to AARP, the folks in the know when it comes to stats regarding boomer and beyond citizens.

It comes without saying (but I think I will) that the marketing industry keeps a close eye upon this generation. According to US Consumer Expenditure Survey records, the 50 plus citizens have $2.4 trillion in annual income, which accounts for 42 percent of all after-tax income and by 2010, adults forty-five years old and older will out spend younger adults by one trillion dollars annually.

Oh, my … need we look further to shout the compelling importance of the boomer buying whims? I think not … yes, we are definitely in charge, no doubt. So dear boomers flaunt it, work it, maintain it, and most of all enjoy it!



Allow me to share the following:



LIFE IS A JOURNEY

NOT FOR US TO BE LOWERED IN THE GRAVE,

ALL PRETTY AND LOOKING RESTED.

IT IS A JOURNEY FOR US TO SLIDE INTO THE GRAVE

SIDEWAYS, BANGED UP, USED UP,

STILL PROCLAIMING AND SHOUTING

WOW!! WHAT A RIDE!



I’m not certain of the origin of the above, but it speaks loudly as the words recommend an active lifestyle no matter the age, and to my dear boomer and beyond readers: Hold your head high and know you are important, that your every word, every dollar spent, each choice of your life … whether through additional educational endeavors, travel, volunteer work, or even a new career is watched closely by the world at large. I must add especially during this election year will your voice at the polls will tell how very in charge we are … feels good, doesn’t it?

Now … dear ones continue on your journey and Godspeed.

        

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