By 2030, over 37 million Baby Boomers will manage multiple chronic conditions.
In fact, 25% will live with diabetes, almost half will live with arthritis and over 33% will be classified as obese. And the over 65 population will nearly triple by 2030. All of this was reported by the American Hospital Association and First Consulting Group in 2007.
This reality hasn’t changed, however. In September 2020, the CDC reported more than half of adults in the U.S. have at least one of 10 selected diagnosed chronic conditions. And 27.2% of U.S. adults have multiple chronic conditions. These include:
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Coronary heart disease
- Current asthma
- Diabetes
- Hepatitis
- Hypertension
- Stroke
- Weak or failing kidneys
So, when Scripps Health noted the top 10 health challenges facing Baby Boomers, it’s not surprising it included Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
EXTRA CREDIT: Can you implement these top 10 trends for 2021 into programs designed for the Baby Boomer population?
As campus rec operators, you are set up to help address a large portion of these needs. Scripps Health noted maintaining a healthy weight is key in helping prevent arthritis and joint replacement, for instance. It also reported exercise and nutrition help decrease the risk of heart disease, and lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on diabetes and its associated risks.
The Baby Boomer population needs to be catered to. One way to do this is to offer programs that cater to them with elements that can include:
- Exercises that simulates and supports their daily activities and physical interests.
- Programs that help improve mood, memory and brain power.
- Socialization is a key aspect, so incorporate partner workouts or even games into the fitness offerings.
- The five elements of aerobic fitness, muscular fitness, flexibility, balance and relaxation.
Don’t ignore this population as 2030 draws near. The impact of Baby Boomer’s health has impending implications for the health care system of this country. Can your campus rec center serve them to make a lasting impact?
