It’s a common misconception that only younger generations are glued to their phones. According to Forbes, Baby Boomers use their smartphones for an average of five hours per day, which is almost as long as Millennials. Boomers spend the majority of that time mindlessly scrolling on social media, which may be having negative effects on their mental health. Here are 12 reasons why Baby Boomers are addicted to their phones just like the rest of us.
1. Entertainment
Many Baby Boomers are addicted to their phones because they’re scaling back on work, leaving them with extra hours in the day to fill. Phones offer a plethora of entertainment options to keep them occupied, from games to articles to streaming services. Baby Boomers use their phones to unwind, stay in touch with loved ones, read news updates, and more.
2. Information Access
Boomers grew up in an era where information wasn’t as readily available as it is today. Their phones provide access to a wealth of information, from news updates to DIY tutorials, fulfilling their curiosity and thirst for knowledge.
3. Online Shopping
Online shopping has become increasingly common among Baby Boomers. In fact, affordable ecommerce platforms like Temu are most popular with Baby Boomers and Gen X. They use their phones to browse and purchase a wide range of products, from groceries to clothing, enjoying the convenience of shopping from the comfort of their own homes.
4. News Consumption
Boomers rely on their phones to stay informed about current events. They use news apps and websites to read articles and watch videos, staying up-to-date with what’s happening in the world around them.
5. Instant Communication with Loved Ones
Phones offer immediate communication with loved ones all around the world, something Baby Boomers appreciate just as much as the rest of us. Whether it’s a quick call, a text message, or email, they enjoy the ability to reach out to friends and get a response almost instantly.
6. GPS Navigation
Gone are the days of paper maps and getting lost on road trips. Boomers rely on their phones for GPS navigation, making it easier for them to travel and explore new places without the fear of getting lost.
7. Nostalgia
For Baby Boomers, their phones are a gateway to nostalgia. Whether it’s reconnecting with old friends on social media, listening to music from their youth, or reminiscing over old photos, their phones allow them to relive cherished memories.
8. Health and Fitness
Many Boomers are health-conscious and use their phones to track their fitness goals. Whether it’s counting steps, monitoring heart rate, or accessing workout routines, their phones serve as valuable tools in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Baby Boomers are also embracing telehealth and other digital healthcare tools. Studies have shown that 30% of the generation engages with healthcare both in-person and digitally.
9. Gaining Digital Skills
Contrary to popular belief, many Baby Boomers are tech-savvy individuals who enjoy using the latest gadgets and apps. They take pride in mastering new technologies and use their phones as a way to showcase and develop their digital skills.
10. Loneliness
Loneliness is a growing problem among older adults. According to the CDC, older Americans are at greater risk for social isolation because they’re more likely to deal with issues such as grief and living alone.
Although social media is no substitute for in-person social interaction, Boomers are addicted to their phones because they allow them to connect with others and stave off loneliness. However, excessive smartphone use may actually be contributing to their isolation, and could eventually lead to increased mental health problems.
11. Habits Gained During the Pandemic
Tech usage surged during the pandemic when we were all stuck inside. Boomers’ excessive screen time may be a habit that they developed during lockdown and haven’t kicked yet. More than half of Baby Boomers say they’re on their phones more of the day than they’d like, but smartphone addiction can be hard to curb.
12. Health Problems
Some Boomers are addicted to their phones due to health problems. It can be difficult for Baby Boomers with health problems to leave the house frequently, so they may be using their phones to stay connected with the world. Many phones also come with built-in assistive technology that they rely on to help them with reading, writing, organization, and sight problems.
13. Work
Baby Boomers who haven’t retired yet may be addicted to their phones due to work obligations. It’s common for workers to stay plugged in and check their emails even after work hours. Hopefully as more Boomers retire, they’ll discover new, fulfilling hobbies that will replace their screen time.
Regain Control of Your Screen Time
It’s hard to reign in your screen time because social media apps often have addictive features and properties. However, it’s possible to regain control of your time with enough determination.
Analyzing your tech habits can help you determine which apps suck up most of your time. Blocking them during certain hours of the day or even deleting them entirely can help you reduce your screen time. Seeking support from family and friends or professionals like coaches or therapists can also be beneficial. Finally, finding new hobbies to replace your phone use can help make screen time less appealing.
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Vicky Monroe is a freelance personal finance and lifestyle writer. When she’s not busy writing about her favorite money saving hacks or tinkering with her budget spreadsheets, she likes to travel, garden, and cook healthy vegetarian meals.
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