Baby Boomers are changing the way meal services are conceptualized and delivered, holding over 80% of the wealth in the U.S. and responsible for the majority of spending in food and beverage. This often-misunderstood population segment, now 60+ years old, is defying stereotypes and categorized as “Active Agers” who are physically, mentally, socially, and digitally active, providing new opportunities for dining experiences that meet the expectations of the Longevity Economy.
Boomers are not just financially formidable but also remarkably tech-savvy and worldly, with their dining expectations significantly influenced by technology. Convenience is crucial for this generation, especially with the rise of online ordering and delivery services due to Covid-19. Many Boomers have become avid users of subscription meal kit services and on-demand food delivery platforms, highlighting the importance of catering to their needs as they desire to “age in place.”
As individuals who grew up when frozen and processed foods dominated the market, Boomers now prioritize healthy eating habits, frequenting farmer’s markets, loathing processed foods, and diligently reading nutrition labels. With an evolved understanding of the connection between food and health outcomes, Boomers leverage technology to create personalized dining experiences. They use apps like MyFitnessPal, Nutrigenomix, and Smart Plate to measure nutrients, build personalized nutrition plans, and optimize health.
Immersive dining experiences have become the norm for Boomers, who seek cultural and educational enrichment through their culinary experiences, prompting a shift in airport dining offerings towards diverse, regionalized options with technology-enabled service and design features. However, the senior living industry has not fully adapted to meet the expectations of Baby Boomers, with a disconnect between what they want in a long-term living strategy and what they can get from senior living settings.
With the U.S. population over 65 projected to reach 73 million by 2030, the intersection of technology, nutrition science, and flexible dining solutions may be the key driver of the Longevity Economy, leading us towards the Fountain of Youth. As Boomers continue to reshape meal services to meet their evolving needs, the future of dining experiences will likely revolve around personalization, variety, and convenience, catering to the unique preferences and expectations of this influential demographic.
