RETIREMENT LIFEST YLES
APPLAUDING TODAY’S SENIORS’ SECOND ACT by Linda A. Thornton
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one are the days when we knew exactly where our parents and grandparents were. If you don’t keep current with their Instagram and Facebook posts, how will you know what world destination they’ve traveled to, what new sport they’ve taken up or what college they are now attending? According to the International Council on Active Aging, in 2020 the number of people age 60 years and over passed the 1 billion mark for the first time ever. That correlates to one in every seven persons having a higher average disposable income and more time to enjoy life. Seniors are fastest growing demographic and sparking excitement as marketers rush to cater to this lucrative market. There was a time when old age meant declining into inactivity. Now, these new customers don’t let age hold them back. Young at heart and in good physical health, their zest for life leads them to look for challenging experiences and embrace life to the fullest. And for those seniors who are looking to make a career change or go back to work, there are myriad new positions available, as companies realize their best ambassadors are the seniors themselves. Taking advantage of reduced or free tuition, it is
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not unusual to see more mature students on college campuses. Senior travel, once defined by outdated stereotypes, now ranges from visiting off-thebeaten path destinations to adventure filled activities to luxury tours and cruises. Naturalists appreciate ecotourism, which educates the traveler, while conserving the environment. Hobbyists enjoy incorporating their passion, such as biking or learning a language, into their plans. Those looking to give back delight in volunteering while experiencing new cultures. Multi-generational travel and traveling with grandchildren provide the gift of lasting memories. A bit of wanderlust and a love of the open road fuels traveling with an RV, a recreational vehicle that contains living quarters.
THE GOOD LIFE AT HOME Senior communities that cater to adults 55 years and over are celebrating strong consumer demand. Offering a sense of community and an active lifestyle, many receive an “A” for amenities, some with more than 60 clubs and organizations available to join. Located in all parts of the country and available at all price levels, there are enough choices to fit individual preferences.
J U LY 2022 LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T
Studies that try to redefine aging, whether it’s for policy purposes or simply to reaffirm the fact that “60 isn’t old,” are always worthwhile, says Carolyn Aldwin, director of Oregon State University’s Center for Healthy Aging Research. “There is great data showing that people in their 70s and 80s today are living with less disability than people in their 70s and 80s just 20 years ago, and we are learning how to live longer and better from what we’ve learned from prior generations," Aldwin said. "For many, many people, I’m a firm believer that 60 is the new 50.”
