The newest Varilux Boomer Watch survey reveals some interesting differences in viewpoint between younger baby boomers (ages 37-46) and older baby boomers (ages 47-55) on issues like exercise, latest trends and sex.. More than a thousand baby boomers were asked questions online about their culture, attitudes, ideals and concerns:

Who Needs Style?

Half of boomers aren’t spending any time worrying about the latest trends. When asked how important it is to be "in-style," 47 percent of younger boomers and 52 percent of older boomers said "not at all."

No Slowing Down

There’s no drop in the daily exercise routine for older boomers. In fact, they actually exercise more than their younger counterparts. Fifteen percent of older boomers said they exercise 4-5 times a week, just a shade higher than younger boomers (14%). Twenty-three percent of older boomers squeeze in a workout 1-2 times a week, compared to 20 percent for younger boomers.

One Thing We Can All Agree On

When asked which current boomer figures were the best role models for the boomer generation, the top three were the same for both older and younger boomers — President George W. Bush, Tom Hanks and Rudi Giuliani topped the lists.

Closed for Business?

The sexual fire stops burning for some once they reach older boomer status. Fourteen percent of younger boomers said they rarely or never have sex. That number jumps to 21 percent for older boomers.

Optimism Fades

Optimism has faded more among older boomers than younger boomers since September 11th. A third of older boomers (33%) say they are less optimistic since the events of last year. Less than a quarter (24%) of younger boomers said the same.

The Eyes Don’t Have It

Not surprisingly, older boomers are facing more struggles with their vision. Some areas that boomers said have been impacted by changes in vision due to age:

Older Boomers -- Younger Boomers

Reading: 56% -- 44%
Using a Computer: 31% -- 20%
Driving: 25% -- 20%

Note: Varilux Boomer Watch™ is a trademark of Essilor of America, Inc.

Back to Living