Aging is not what it used to be<br>by Tina Y. Gerber

Over the last few years, I have noted the contrast between the ‘Baby Boomer’ seniors versus the ‘Depression Era’ seniors. The main difference, in my opinion, is seniors of today want control. They want control over their lives, as well as, how they live and experience life. In my opinion, control is definitely the biggest issue. The Baby Boomers want to have a say in all areas of their lives, from what is done for them, how they will age and what they will do in their retirement years.

Baby Boomers were born between 1946 and 1964, soon after World War II, and are currently between the ages of 57 to 75. Shhhh, that’s me, don’t tell anyone. From 1946 to 1964, life experiences were completely different. The effects of the war and the great depression had started to subside, and people began to feel more optimistic about having a better future. Attitudes, behaviours and society were vastly different than the previous generation. Canada’s birthrate blossomed, due to improving economic conditions, so people had larger families. Baby Boomers worked hard to provide for their families and wanted to pave the way for a better future. They started to reject and redefine their values. Baby boomers are the wealthiest, most active group of people and have the most disposable income.

They still continue to influence and shape Canada’s economy and society, as they head into retirement years.

Today’s Baby Boomers want to maintain the best quality of life for as long as possible, they pay attention to lifestyle, investments, diet and other interventions. They want to extend and increase the quality of their lives but aging comfortably has become a major concern. It would be amazing if we all had an incredible quality of life, and could drift off to sleep and die peacefully at 101. Sadly, this rarely occurs. This generation is living longer but experiencing higher rates of obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension.

Whether you are part of the Depression Era, Baby Boomer, Generation X, Centennial or Generation Y, it is important to keep fit and follow healthy guidelines. Let’s all age gracefully together. Everyone deserves to live a full and active life. Staying active keeps the mind and body sharp. Exercise regularly, whether playing sports, going for walks, or doing simple exercises from your chair. Get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet with lots of fruit, nuts and vegetables; avoid sugar and processed or starchy foods. Breathe deeply; quietly reflect and relax; and if your inclined to, pray to God, as all this will calm the body and mind to enhance your immune system. Remember, keep your brain active and stick to a daily routine.

Life, in general, can be exciting and empowering, whether you are young or young at heart. Happy New Year’s.

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