Reinventing Aging: Baby Boomers and Civic Engagement

A Report from
Harvard School of Public Health–MetLife Foundation Initiative
on Retirement and Civic Engagement
REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Approximately 77 million babies were born in the United States during the boom years of 1946 to
1964. In 2011, the oldest will turn 65, and, on average, can expect to live to 83. Many will
continue well into their 90s.
The baby boomers soon will have the opportunity to redefine the meaning and purpose of the
older years. As some of the demands of work and family that have commanded their attention in
mid-life recede, boomers will have the potential to become a social resource of unprecedented
proportions by actively participating in the life of their communities.
But will they participate? Compared to their parents' generation, the so-called "Greatest
Generation," boomers have done less by every measure of civic engagement, including rates of
voting and joining community groups. Given this reality, Reinventing Aging: Baby Boomers and
Civic Engagement, a report from the Harvard School of Public Health–MetLife Foundation
Initiative on Retirement and Civic Engagement, examines these questions:
• Can a national effort succeed in mobilizing large numbers of boomers to contribute their
time, skills, and experience to address community problems?
• If boomers respond in large numbers, will civic organizations of various kinds be
prepared to receive them?
• What roles can the news media, the advertising industry, and Hollywood play in helping
society redefine the meaning and purpose of the older years