In 2056, for the first time in US history, the population of people older than 65 will outnumber younger people according to the US Census bureau. The Census bureau also tells us that baby boomers are living longer than their parents did even though they tend to be less healthy than their parents were at the same age. Advances in medicine and medical technology are allowing people to live longer, even if they have poor health habits.
What changes will need to happen as a higher percentage of our population is older? Time will tell. But mostly likely we'll need to rely on each other more. Our health care system will need to focus more on staying fit and healthy and less on curing illnesses. And each of us will need to care for older neighbors, family members, and friends. Probably a higher percentage of the population will be employed in the elder care and health care fields. And we may all work well past the age of 60.
As changes come to our society each of us needs to make sure we are ready for the future. Staying physically, socially, and mentally active will help each of us as our bodies grow older. No matter what your age now, consider ways that you can become more engaged in your community, keep your body fit, and use your brain more. Consider adding the following habits to your life:
*At least once a week call or visit a friend.
*Exercise daily, sometimes aerobic, sometimes stretching. If you don't have time for a whole work-out, add a longer walk to the car when you park at the office or store or take the steps instead of the elevator.
*Look for ways to learn daily. Make a list of things you want to learn on your computer or in your journal. Check this list at least once a year to notice what you've learned and pat yourself on the back for keeping an active brain.
*Learn habits that help you relax and feel good. Include leisure in your weekly and daily routine.
*Consider your next doctor visit as a time to learn about yourself and your health. After your check-up resolve to try new ideas that you learned from the doctor or nurse to improve your health. Enlist a friend to encourage you to keep your goal by telling her/him of your new resolution.
*Notice (but don't condemn yourself for) your bad health habits and make small changes to be more healthy. For example, if you put three spoons of sugar in your tea, try to cut back to 2 spoons over the course of one week. If you walk one mile slowly, pick up the pace once a week or add a bit of length. Small changes makes big differences over time.
*Learn about organizations that help others and consider volunteering.
*Talk with your family members and friends about how you want to be cared for when your are older. Get your will ready and prepare ideas for your family to commemorate your death once you have pass on.
We'll all need to work together as our society ages. Please add your comments on how we can all prepare in the comments below.
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