A recent article on the American Medical News website reports that disabilities are increasing in the 60-69 year-old age range.  I don’t know what others think, but in this day and age, I consider 60-69 pretty young when considering current estimates of life expectancy, and so I found this report shocking.

The article, by Christine S. Moyer refers to a study published by the American Journal of Public Health. This report found that, consistent with overall declines in reports of physical activity, that the youngest group (the “young-old”) had the greatest increase in physical disabilities.  Functional activities (such as climbing stairs) were decreased in this group, while the frequency of obesity increased.  In fact, Moyer reports, “Although all age groups reported more obesity, the most striking increase was among people in their 60s, for whom prevalence of obesity rose from 27.4% in 1988-1994 to 37.6% for 1999-2004.”

It seems that while self-care is on the radar screen for some people represented by the boomer generation (and those slightly older), for others it is not.  Reasons for this are complex, as obesity is a complicated and multi-factorial problem (and one I will address in my next post). However, Moyer reports that loosing weight might help to lower these current and striking levels of disability.

And though it seems true, based on my clinical experience, that a number of people can reduce disability by loosing weight, I can’t help but think that the desire for “drugs, sex and rock and roll” (even if it is meant in a euphemistic sense), plagues the current generation of boomers. 

Aging has never been pleasant.  But never before in history have people faced long life spans with such uncertainty. And this not knowing might be related to difficulty in giving up some very basic pleasures as we age, such as eating what we want, whenever we feel like it. 

Every day I sit with old and young seniors as they ponder the questions, ‘How long will I live?’ ‘Will I have enough money?’ and for those who are privileged enough, ‘How much money do I need and can I count on my kids to help take care of me?’

Uncertainty is terrifying.  We all know this no matter what age we are.  But the boomers are facing unprecedented life expectancy and ambiguity.  They need our support for health and better lifestyle choices.  But understanding goes a long way too.  Maybe they also just need people who can comprehend their unique challenges, and concurrent anxiety, without judgment.