Active aging: Redefining retirement

 

The first of the baby boomers have reached age 65. Baby boomers, now more commonly called “zoomers,” are the generation that lobbied, protested and engaged the world in important issues like human rights and healthy environments. They redefined life in the second half of the 20th century and now they’re redefining retirement.

But it’s not just the zoomers who are seeing retirement differently. Their peers, on either side of their age range, started the swing to very active retirement. Fitness centres are seeing growth in their mature demographics and non-profit organizations are seeing zoomers bring their talents and experience into volunteering.

One thing has become very clear – retirement no longer means you’re old. The retirement stereotype doesn’t define how the retired population is spending their time; the individuality that defined the 1960s and 1970s is now being reflected in the active lifestyles of those over 65.

No matter what age, zoomers don’t feel old. When asked what age old actually is, they consistently reply with a number that is 10 years older than they are. “Old” is a moving target. As the zoomers age, the number that represents old gets higher.

This active attitude is a benefit to every community. A survey on retirement found those polled—all retirees—were concerned for the well-being of their children, their parents and their communities. Zoomers are 10 times more likely, according to the poll, to put others first (43 per cent). They’re staying actively involved in their communities and their families; they’re actively involved in their health and wellness.

Retirement has taken on a new look. It’s one that benefits from good planning and a continued interest in making the most of your retirement income.