Health Risks and Solutions for Baby Boomers

Baby Boomers

Who are baby boomers? Baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, are one of the largest generations in the United States, having recently been surpassed by the Millennial generation in 2024. We are the largest generation to reach retirement age, and as a member of this generation, I can personally attest to experiencing some health changes.

Some common concerns among Baby Boomers are chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. Other health concerns that baby boomers have are memory loss, bone health, and mental health. As a Sandwiched Generation Baby Boomer, I am very concerned about my health as I am responsible not only for my well-being but also for the well-being of other family members. Therefore, maintaining my mental and physical health is crucial to me.

Some Common Diseases Affecting Baby Boomers

Heart Disease

Heart problems are at the top of the list for Baby Boomers. Stress, high-sodium diets, and a lack of exercise puts us at higher risk for heart disease and high blood pressure.

Common culprits of heart disease include:

• • High cholesterol from fatty diets

• • Obesity due to less movement and more fast food

• • Family history of heart concerns

• • Unmanaged stress that boosts blood pressure

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes has increased among Baby Boomers. Many of us are overweight or obese due to poor eating habits and immobility. Statistics show that we, Baby Boomers, are facing higher rates of obesity than other generations.

How does this negatively affect our health?

• • Weight gain slows how well the body handles sugar.

• • Years of processed foods raise blood sugar levels.

• • Less physical activity means less energy burned off.

Managing blood sugar take persistence and consistent good diet choices.  For example, substitute drinking water for soda.  Moving more, such as, going for a walk after dinner can also help reduce the risk.

Arthritis and Joint Pain

Arthritis isn’t just a condition of the elderly. Years of sports related activity, work, and everyday wear and tear accumulate, causing pain and stiffness in the knees, hips, hands, and back.  I started playing recreational tennis at age 40. Today, at age 64, my knees have started to ache.  However, I don’t plan on giving up the sport anytime soon. Therefore, I must practice good recovery exercises to reduce inflammation and pain in my knees.  I also take a supplement that helps with preserving joints and maintaining cartilage.

Stretching, low-impact exercise (like swimming or cycling), are also helpful.

Osteoporosis

Bone health is a common concern for Baby Boomers. After the age of 50, bones lose density more rapidly, especially in women after menopause. Years of inadequate calcium intake, low vitamin D levels, and inactivity can weaken bones and increase the risk of fractures.

Common risk factors include:

• • Not getting enough dairy or leafy greens when younger

• • Less weight-bearing exercise (walking, hiking)

In addition to taking supplements, I participate in vibration training which has been proven to help increase bone density.

Mental Health Challenges

Depression and Loneliness

Life changes, such as retirement, physical health problems, children moving away from home, (empty nest), and loss of family, can cause feelings of depression and loneliness in Baby Boomers.

Mental health is as equally important as physical health.  As we age, our mental health  can be negatively impacted and it’s one of the biggest factors in long-term happiness and quality of life.

Loneliness is another big issue. Grown children may live far away. Friends move or pass on. Health issues can limit mobility, making it hard to meet new people or keep up with old hobbies.

Ways to stay connected:

• • Schedule regular visits or calls with family and friends

• • Join community groups or fitness classes

• • Volunteer with local organizations