4 million people will turn 50 years old this year. That's about 1 every 8 seconds.If you're in that group (plus or minus 10 years) you'll want to pay attention.
You may have the perception that a 50 year old today is much more able, healthy, vibrant, even younger, than the 50 year old of yesteryear. After all, 50 is the new 40 right?
But would you believe me if I said the 50 year old today is unhealthier than the 50 year old of 10 years ago?
A study released by the JAMA Internal Medicine shows just how unhealthy boomers are compared to the previous generation.
They compared those who were 46 to 64 years old between 1988 and 1994, and the baby boomers who were in the same age range between 2007 and 2010.
Here's what they found:
- Obesity rose by 10%, from 29% to 39%
- Diabetes rose 4%, from 12% to 16%
- Boomers were more likely to have high cholesterol
- Boomers were more likely to have blood pressure
- Boomers were more likely to have exercise less
- Twice as many walk with a cane or walker
Dana King, the study's lead author was a little surprised. "I was surprised by the magnitude of the change. I suspected the current baby boomers would be not much healthier or maybe the same, but I didn't expect them to have such a big change in disability and obesity."
Here's what's important... There's no question that life expectancy has risen. But it's a quality problem. Not quantity. There's nothing appealing about living longer with poor health. Quality of life is what really matters.
You don't want to live the last 15 years of your life in poor health do you?
Of course not!
According to this study, the majority of boomers will. Because this study tells us boomers sit more and exercise less.
And the worst part... it's totally preventable.
So the takeaway is to get moving. Now. And I don't mean walking the dog. Ask any one of our clients if a hike, bike ride, or walk with friends is the same as a real workout and you'll get a quick and definitive "No".
If you need help improving your cardiovascular fitness, strength, dropping weight... improving the quality of your life... then call me today to discuss our Discovery Session (314.909.9565). It's never too late to start. But you must start now.
In health,
Tim Chudy
Fitness Together
P.S. There were some marked improvements for boomers. But a lower rate of emphysema just tells me smoking and nicotine education is finally setting in. The facts tell us boomers are overweight and out of shape. If you fall into this group call me today.
P.P.S. Continue 'as is' and the statistic will change to ...a boomer dies every 8 seconds. Do something about that and prevent it NOW.
