This year, more than four million Baby Boomers will reach the age of 50. On top of that, Baby Boomers in the older end of the generation are quickly approaching retirement. One result of the aging of the population in the United States will be an increased need for healthcare.
While it may seem that an older population would result in a greater need for hospital care, many Baby Boomers are also looking to alternative therapy to alleviate the aches and pains associated with growing older. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 38 percent of adults in the United States are using some kind of Alternative Therapy to deal with medical issues. Given that Baby Boomers have always been characterized as countercultural and questioning of the status quo, it comes as no surprise that they are more open to Alternative Therapy then perhaps the generation before them.
As the Baby Boomers get older, it is likely that even more will turn to Alternative Therapy to treat medical conditions. So, what can you offer to older generations at your practice?
- Acupuncture is a great way to improve the pains associated with arthritis, as well as a good way to manage chronic conditions and reduce general discomfort.
- Massage Therapy decreases stiffness and inflammation, bone and muscle deterioration, as well as decreases the anxiety associated with Alzheimer’s Disease.
- Physical Therapy improves balance, muscle strength and overall fitness, which allows the elderly to fight off disabilities they are at risk for, as well as allows elderly to maintain independence longer.
- Chiropractic care provides decreased stiffness, increased mobility, increased balance, decreased arthritis pain, and minimized risk of injuries from falls.
In the coming years, it will be important to leverage on this demographic trend by advertising directly to the Baby Boomer market. Letting Baby Boomers know about the many benefits you can provide to them as they grow older will surely will help them out and help your practice as well.
