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Topic: Boomers
Taking Action on Ageism
Young is good, old is bad. That is the message that surrounds us in all kinds of media, conversations, at the workplace...even in our birthday cards! This article strongly offers some proactive ways of dealing with anti-aging messages that are destructive to boomers' psyches and can have dangerous social, political, and economic ramifications. Where to begin? Read the five flags outlined by the author and then gather a group who are determined to change the ageist mindset that surrounds us. Perhaps you will want to create a Fierce with Age Consciousness Group and start by proclaiming "old is good!"
Next Stop: "Next Avenue"
A new "digital destination" for boomers called Next Avenue just launched ... and includes a refreshing blend of journalism by veteran reporters, information gleaned from trusted government leaders, nonprofit agencies, and commercial media outlets; and insights from a renowned private university and PBS stations around the country. The website aims to help boomers deal with the full range of concerns and interests that come into play during this next stage of life —“adult part 2.” Next Avenue invites readers to share their journeys and comment on articles and blog posts.
Caregiving: The "New Normal" for Boomers
Trying to create the best possible quality of life for an aging relative is "the new normal" for 43.5 million Americans caring for someone older than 50, according to the Family Caregiver Alliance. This comprehensive article addresses the issues that families face when a loved one begins to fail, the difficulties in finding the right kinds of care, and the questions that need to be asked by children to assess their parent's situation. Knowing about available resources and services for older adults is critical in dealing with the "new normal." To read more, click here.
New Group of Entrepreneurs
Anyone who needs to be convinced that being an entrepreneur after 50 is a pipe dream, read this article and you may find yourself imagining the logo for your new business. The entrepreneurial path is alluring for boomers with newfound free time and either financial freedom or financial insecurity on their hands. As one boomer business woman put it, "If we do this right, we could be entering ...a "golden age" of entrepreneurship, where smart, educated people embrace business ownership partly out of necessity, partly fueled by their dreams, and partly to grab control of their lives."
What's Next When the Bottom Falls Out?
A lot has been written about the boomer experience...we are, after all, 79 milion people strong... and interested in what age 50+ looks like. An interesting addition is "The Nextnik," a six-episode online video written by movie-maker Mike Kravinsky that follows the tribulations, and triumphs, of Larry Zimmerman, a 55-year-old, upper management family man, who was fired and left with no clue about what comes next. His exploration of what really matters and how he makes a transition is the focus of this series. Tune in and let us know what you think.
I've Earned It and I'm Keeping It!
Selfish? Me? That's not how some boomers would see it. Many have already made it known that they will be spending their remaining money on themselves and enjoying the golden years without thought to providing an inheritance to their children. According to this Los Angeles Times article, a growing number of boomers realize that they have built businesses, careers, and assisted children through all levels of school, often at the expense of personal health or relationships...and that they have had enough of the "giving" mantra. Now..."it's all about me!"
Living Large in Jacksonville
So where are boomers settling as they enter their golden years? Are they moving to the bustling, arts and culture rich cities? Not according to this Forbes article that cites 2010 Census data about the whereabouts of those 55 to 64 year. If people are moving, it is to the low-density Sunbelt metros on this top ten list. But, by far the biggest trend among boomers at this age is not to move at all. Maybe they are staying at home because many are still working full-time, the economy is unstable, and/or grown children are returning. Read the next article for what some in the older set are considering...
"Affinity" Communities: A Retirement Option
As you might expect, with so many boomers edging toward retirement, the choices of living arrangements are growing in interesting, creative ways. This article outlines the many niche or "affinity" communities that cater specifically to retirees who share interests, hobbies, or personal traits. There are those that are university-based and target alumni and intellectuals, enclaves for Asian-Americans, and at least six communities for gays and lesbians. There is even a spot for boomers interested in RVing. To learn more about this burgeoning trend, click here.
Boomer Bonding
As we know, boomer women and men are eager to explore next steps in their lives and connect with others going through this time of life. This article talks about a group of New Jersey women, "Boomer Chicks", who have found "female bonding" through activities and discussions with a trained counselor. With full-time work taking up much of their time, they found that they didn't develop the kinds of friendships that their mothers did, many of whom were homemakers. There are a growing number of resources for seeking connections and direction. Check out the Coming of Age website for resources, the Age for Change e-book, The Transition Network...and this newsletter for upcoming workshops and events.
Speaking of the encore years, here is a review of Marc Freedman's latest book, The Big Shift, that is both a call to action and a blueprint for creating a new stage after midlife, which Freedman calls the “encore stage.” He is the founder and CEO of Civic Ventures, a nonprofit think tank on boomers, work, and social purpose. Since people are living longer and healthier lives, this encore stage could span half a lifetime. The author believes that this underutilized resource can be a real force in meeting society’s challenges. To learn more about this book,
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