I'm a baby boomer. That's a confession...because I hate the term "baby boomer." I resent being lumped in, and pigeon-holed, with all of the other 78 million baby boomers. Yet, I can't really change when I was born. I'm a baby boomer.
I'm also of an age where the minor aches and pains of youth...are starting to add up. I stopped running marathons a few years ago. My right knee decided to hurt. Ending the training runs didn't change much. My knee is still complaining at me. Six years ago, I can run a half-marathon in 1:26...and today I can't run six miles. Grumble! Ouch! Groan!
I don't think that I'm alone. I suspect that other "baby boomers" are beginning to notice their own private aches and pains.
I was reading an interesting article the other day...by Allison Bell in the latest National Underwriter, Life & Health. She discussed this same topic. She had an interesting statement. In referring to what financial advisors can do to assist their baby boomer clients, she says:
"In the long run, persuading 'near elderly' boomer clients to to talk to physical therapists, athletic trainers, and others who know how to slow and cope with aging may do as much to improve those clients' later years as helping those clients accumulate hundreds of thousands of dollars in extra savings and investment income."
She goes on to say, "...helping affluent clients stay healthy enough to postpone hiring round-the-clock home nurses or entering top-quality assisted living facilities just one year could save those clients more than $100,000."
Michael Weinper is the president of PTPN, Inc., a California-based company that manages a large network of independent physical and occupational therapists. He predicts that therapists and trainers will help baby boomers keep the gold in their golden years.
He also believes that the financial services industry should make better connections to the senior wellness industry...and advisors who work with boomers would be well-served to convince their clients that wellness is a great investment.
Boomer advisors could:
- Invite physical therapists and other wellness experts to speak at seminars for prospects and clients.
- Include articles about the importance of proper computer furniture and posture...in their client newsletters.
- Invite their clients to a yoga class on Saturday, and encourage exercise that improves balance and prevents falls.
Or you could send all of your clients a years supply of glucosamine.
"It is sad to grow old...but nice to ripen."...Brigitte Bardot
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