When the first wave of Baby Boomers hit 50 last year, the event was duly noted. Although 50 certainly is a milestone, few Boomers actually think of themselves as senior citizens.
They are, they will tell you, in their vintage years; that like fine wines--they may be aging, but they're improving daily.
The fact is, in terms of how long people live these days, 50-year-olds really are pretty young to be thought of as oldsters as they once were. Improved health care and healthier lifestyles are helping us live longer--and better.
Most 50-year-olds think of their parents as senior citizens. And these days, many of those parents would argue that they aren't old yet, either.
Still, one of the most sobering moments for those approaching 50 is the letter that arrives in the mail notifying them that they are eligible to join the National Association of Retired Persons.
Most of us may be thinking young, but the fact is, our population is aging. That's why we're going to focus periodically in this newspaper on different aspects of these vintage years. Today, we look at lifelong learning.
Most people in their early 50s aren't seriously thinking of retiring to the proverbial rocking chair. But many are considering a change in direction--some by choice; some because of downsizing.
And these "pre-seniors" aren't the only segment of the aging population looking for ways to stay active and involved. While they may travel and play golf more than they used to, most older people don't want to drop out of society.
They're volunteering in record numbers, and many hold down jobs, either full time or part time.
The contributions of older adults to our society in volunteer time are invaluable. They help out at schools and hospitals; they work with the frail elderly and as consumer advocates. They keep trails cleared, and they run programs at senior centers. Just for starters.
All the while, they're continuing to learn and to grow. They're in their prime. These are the vintage years.
--Dale Bryant
This article appeared in the Saratoga News, January 22, 1997.
©1997 Metro Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.