When I realized the focus of this issue was about the Boomer generation, I wondered how I could manage to keep my reflections within the column’s specified word count (yes there is one), which is always a challenge. So, here goes.
Are you a Boomer? You are if you were born between 1946 and 1964, following what has been labelled the “silent generation.” In sheer numbers, Boomers represented a huge segment of the population. Forecast futurist Marvin Cetron put it this way: “In a very real sense, the history of the United States in the second half of the 20th century is the history of a single generation, the Baby Boomers.”
Growing up in the shadow of economic instability and war, the silent generation worked hard, tended to be cautious and sought stability. In contrast, Boomers were more self-assured, independent and competitive, maturing in a time of strong economic gain. They valued relationships, were goal-oriented, had a strong work ethic, and were community-conscious.
Eventually, Boomers were divided into two groups. Those born between 1955 and 1964 later became known as Generation Jones, a term coined in 1999 by author Jonathan Ponntell. Although originally grouped with all Baby Boomers because they were born during a high birth period, sociologists eventually accepted Generation Jones as a separate generation. Most of those who make up Generation Jones did not grow up with World War II veterans as fathers and came of age after compulsory military service and the Vietnam draft ended. Notables Oprah Winfrey, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayer and Jill Abramson, former executive editor of The New York Times are members of Generation Jones, while Bill Gates is considered a late Boomer.
The 60s may be recalled as a decade of contrasts. There were riots, boycotts, antiwar demonstrations, and protests for freedom and civil rights. At the same time, it was an era filled with hope and optimism based on a strong belief that social policies could be changed. Boomers embraced society’s heightened awareness of the importance of helping others. With their commitment to service and volunteerism, they made a lasting impact on society.
Fast forward to today. The oldest Boomers are in their 70s. By 2030, about one in five Americans will be older than 65. In 2023, almost 20 percent of the workforce was 65 or older. Having enjoyed a long period of generational dominance in an era of strong economic growth and expansion, they remain a force to be reckoned with as they envision the last chapter in their lives.
Boomers remain agents of change inspiring those who follow them to push against ageism. They will leave a legacy of social change with their advocacy in the areas of housing, health care, women’s rights, gay rights, civil rights, and social equality. Finally, they will benefit younger generations by financially supporting programs that help them.
We can all become change agents no matter our age. Opportunities to make a difference abound. And then we can say, as Frank Sinatra sang, “I did it my way.”
Linda Henry writes regularly on topics related to aging, health care, and communication and is the co-author of several books, including Transformational Eldercare from the Inside Out: Strengths-Based Strategies for Caring. She conducts workshops nationally on aging and creating caring work environments. Her volunteer emphasis is age-friendly communities.