Members of the baby boomer generation—those born from 1946 to 1964—are now in their 50s, 60s, and 70s. Many boomers are facing inevitable health challenges, partly due to the natural process of aging and their longer, fuller lives. Common concerns for this demographic range from cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer to mental illness, dementia, and caregiver stress.
Prevention through screening
Throughout life, regular screenings for common health risks can help both extend our years and preserve our quality of life, with screening becoming even more important as we age. It’s important to discuss which health screenings are appropriate for our individual needs based on age, gender, risk, personal risk factors, and family history.
Most common screening tests
Some commonly recommended regular screening tests for older adults include the following.
| Screening tests | Recommended for |
| blood pressure | everyone |
| cholesterol | men >39 and women >49 or who are postmenopausal |
| osteoporosis/bone density | men and women ≥65 |
| mammogram | available for those ≥40 |
| colon cancer | everyone aged 50 to 74 |
| prostate cancer | men aged 50 to 70 |
Smart supplementation
In addition to regular screenings, a range of supplements can help address health concerns that commonly affect older adults.
- Calcium and vitamin D help keep bones strong at all ages and prevent bone loss and factures later in life.
- Vitamin B6, which helps form red blood cells, is less readily absorbed as we age, making supplementation a helpful support.
- Crucial to healthy blood cells, vitamin B12 also supports nerve health and may be important in reducing the risk of dementia.
Caregivers and stress
The role of caregiver is a demanding one that can lead to burnout even among the most resilient of people. Many baby boomers balance caring for elderly parents, their own families, and their careers—earning them the nickname the “sandwch generation.” These multiple caregiving roles have made many boomers particularly susceptible to the effects of stress.
Try it!
Looking to reduce stress? Eating right, sleeping well, exercising, and other lifestyle choices that can help manage stress are important in leading a long and healthy life by sidestepping chronic disease risks.
Are you going to try and make one change? Share with us on Instagram and Facebook @deliciouslivingmag. You’ll find plenty of support within our community of like-minded wellness enthusiasts!
