Were people age 50 to 64 a decade ago healthier than Boomers of the same age today? A recent analysis of disability data from the National Health Interview Survey, a nationally representative survey of health issues for Americans, suggests that may be the case.
Researchers from the RAND Corporation and the University of Michigan found that significantly more Americans in the 50- to 64-age group were reporting disabilities related to mobility in 2007 than in 1997. For instance:
More than 40 percent of people aged 50 to 64 reported that, due to a health problem, they had difficulty with at least one of nine physical functions; many reported issues with more than one.
- Over the study period, researchers noted a significant increase in the number of people reporting that a health problem made it difficult for them to stoop, stand for two hours, walk a quarter mile or climb 10 steps without resting.
- There also was a significant increase in the proportion of people who reported needing help with personal care activities of daily living such as getting in or out of bed or getting around inside their homes.
Particularly troubling was the increase in the number of reasons cited for the disabilities. From 1997-2005, neck and back problems, diabetes, and emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, or other problems were the most common causes. By 2005-2007, arthritis and rheumatism had been added to the list; with many respondents reporting that their disabilities had begun in their thirties or forties.
Whatever the reasons—obesity? Too little exercise? Too much tennis, golf, skiing, or marathon running? —it’s clear that as 78 million Baby Boomers head toward age 65 and beyond, this trend has the potential to overtax an already stressed health care system. At the same time, it presents real business opportunities for those focused on healthy lifestyle products and services.
Source:
Renée Despres, Senior Editor, ehealthMD.com
(On January 1, 2011, the first of the Baby Boom generation begins to turn 65. While marketers have traditionally viewed anyone over 49 as over the hill, there are compelling reasons why overlooking Boomers isn’t smart for business. During the course of the next few weeks, we’ll be highlighting 65 of those reasons.)
Food manufacturers are embracing supplements that battle chronic diseases from heart disease to arthritis by including them in their food and beverage formulations. For example, SMART BALANCE has added omega-3’s (a key nutrient for heart health) into their buttery spreads, and there are a variety of vitamin-enhanced, omega-3 eggs. From the Blueberry Council and the Almond Board of California, to the Cranberry Marketing Committee, they are all jumping on the nutritional bandwagon by promoting the health benefits of their foods. With Boomers demanding these changes, companies are starting to respond. There's opportunity for more to jump on board.
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