Produce Spotlight: Garlic
‘Baby Boomers’ are considered to be those who were born anywhere within the twenty years after the WWII ended: 1944 through 1964. The well documented increase in population of this generation has led to strain on the system the whole way through their lives: from hospital beds to classroom sizes and soon to be nursing homes. In 2030 there will be nearly three times the number of seniors (65+ years old) as there was in 1980. Big change needs to come fast, especially as the health of not only this age group but our society as a whole is declining.
On account of an increasing wealth of information via the internet becoming accessible to nearly everyone in Canada today, boomers too are acquiring more knowledge about their own health. Empowering one with the tools they need to feel confident in looking after their own health is priceless, especially as the healthcare system continues to take on a heavier burden of our nation getting sicker. The key to alleviating this worsening load lies in prevention. With each passing birthday each of us has the potential to move closer or further away from health. Boomers (and everyone!) can incorporate things like these into their day-to-day lives:[/vc_column_text]
- Regular Exercise: The boomer generation gets less exercise on average than their parents generation did. Our lifestyle today is less labour intensive and more screen-centric contributing to the increase in obesity, type II diabetes & high blood pressure seen in todays boomers.
- Better Nutrition: Research has shown that this generation is more concerned with meal planning than any other age group today. Fruit & veggies are becoming more present at meal time, showing a move away from the typical ‘meat & potatoes’ archetype. The prominence of this trend however is a result of the majority of boomers struggling with their weight.
- Proper Hydration: A large majority of seniors are coffee drinkers, which quickly dehydrates the body putting a strain on many bodily functions. Drinking plenty of filtered water will help keep joints, connective tissues, muscles & skin lubricated, contributing to better range of motion and ability to stay active.
As a result of the large chunk of the market that boomers occupy, there is no shortage of devices, products & services aimed at the boomer generation. And generally no lack of funds or interest in taking the easy way out. If it seems too good to be true, put your wallet away.
- There’s A Pill For Every Ill: erectile dysfunction, pain relief, cholesterol, water pills, blood pressure… it goes on & on. If your doctor has prescribed it, be sure to discuss it with them to ensure that it’s what’s right for you. Also know that there’s an increasing amount of prescription medications dependence & abuse. Prescription medications are the most widely abused controlled substances. Doctors know that boomers have the money & the health plan that allows them to line their own pockets, and they also want to be comfortable. Use caution & look into natural ‘alternatives’. Chemical medications have only been around for 100 years whereas herbs have been here for much longer.
- Living Longer: The average age is 83 these days, but increased mobility and money to burn has all kinds of companies targeting boomers to draw their attention in. Don’t buy into all the hype. Chances are you don’t need the crazy that they’re selling anyways.
- Antiaging; Fighting Mother Nature: A huge market primarily targeted at women. We all want to look good, but draw the line somewhere. Nobody is going to be fooled by you pursuing the same look as your high school aged granddaughter. Acceptance of your body as it is (beautiful!) plays a huge part in setting a good example for the generations looking up to you as a role model. Confidence & a smile are the best secrets to looking younger!
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