Abstract:

A discussion about the future health & welfare of the baby boom generation as it grows older suggests that, although the size of the baby boom cohort has generated predictions of a large financial & physical burden of care, advances in the prevention & treatment of chronic disease may result in boomers being the healthiest, most productive group of older people. The relationship between productivity & dependency is discussed, focusing on new trends that keep people working longer. As health care consumers, boomers are better educated & more apt to expect better coordinated health services. Having seen the current realities of long-term care with their parents, boomers are not likely to be satisfied with the fragmented, underinsured long-term care services available today. The possibility of a successful nationwide universal health insurance system, such as in HI, is examined, along with suggested changes in Medicare access, & shared government-individual responsibility.