PPAI Magazine September 2024

| Must Read Seniors Are Shaping The Future Of Work Some seniors enjoy stepping into retirement, while others continue to work into their later years. People age 75 and older make up the fastest-growing age group in the workforce, quadrupling in size since 1964. Why are older adults more likely to be working now than in decades past? Pew Research points out several factors, including higher education levels, shifting retirement plan offerings and the changing nature of many jobs. Since the 1990s, several jobs have become “age-friendly,” meaning they don’t require much strenuous physical activity. As more Americans continue to work well into their 60s, 70s and beyond, businesses can show their appreciation with useful promo for the office like wireless charging pads, reusable water bottles and customized desk accessories. Globe-Trotting Golden-Agers For many older adults, the world is truly their oyster. They’re not just dreaming of vacations – they’re making them happen. More than half of people age 50 and older prioritize traveling and vacations with their discretionary income. About one-third of these seasoned travelers are currently saving up for future vacations, and 63% say they want to take a bucket-list trip. Where do American seniors most want to jet off to? The top international destinations include Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. Travel agencies, tour operators, cruise lines, resorts and other travel-related businesses can use promo to highlight senior-friendly excursions, discounts and packages. Savvy Seniors Embrace Tech From smartphones to smart homes, today’s seniors excel at technology. Each year, they spend close to $1,000 on tech, whether they use it to connect with loved ones, monitor their health or upgrade their home. By 2030, AARP projects older adults to spend more than $120 billion on tech. Brands can get in on the action with tech promo like digital devices for monitoring steps or vital signs or digital photo frames for admiring loved ones from afar. Use Promo To Help Senior Athletes Excel Many seniors have a zest for life and enjoy the thrill of competition. Those age 75 and older spend more hours each day on leisure and sports than any other age group, spending nearly eight hours each day on these activities. From sporting goods stores to senior sports leagues, brands can use promo like smoothie shakers, cooling towels or muscle rollers to inspire older adults to stay active and healthy. Tackling Senior Hunger Head-On Americans are living longer and with less in their pockets. According to Meals on Wheels America, 1 in 2 seniors living alone don’t have money to pay for their basic needs. About 12 million older adults are at risk for or currently experience hunger, with food insecurity especially impacting people of color. Home-delivered meals can make a huge difference for seniors – not just in addressing hunger, but in improving their health, helping them feel more secure and allowing them to live independently. By leveraging promo, organizations can raise awareness about hunger and show their commitment to hunger relief. Whether they sponsor food drives and support participants with promo items or give volunteers branded merch, there are many ways to use promotional products to address this issue. What’s Stressing Seniors The Most Older adults have a lot on their minds when it comes to their health. According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging by the University of Michigan, adults age 50 and older are most concerned about the cost of medical care followed by the cost of home care or assisted living. More than half of U.S. adults (56%) say these worries weigh heavily on them. Brands and organizations can use promotional campaigns to provide reassurance and point seniors to helpful resources. After informational sessions or workshops, send seniors home with promo like health-screening kits or reflective safety gear they can wear on walks. Using promo is a way to address their health concerns while building trust within the community. PPAI • SEPTEMBER 2024 • 87

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