People who grew up in the 1960s, 70s and 80s, spanning baby boomers and Generation X, worry about a set of issues that barely register for younger generations, according to YourTango.
While Gen Z and millennials tend to focus on global issues and the high cost of living, older generations are more concerned with preserving tradition and adapting to technology, the outlet reported.
Ten concerns unique to older generations
YourTango listed 10 problems that weigh on boomers and Gen X but rarely trouble younger people. These include not having enough retirement savings to last a lifetime, and caring for elderly family members. The article noted that 25 percent of Gen Z blame their parents for their physical or mental health struggles, a sentiment not shared by older generations, who grew up prioritizing family.
Other worries include helping adult children who cannot afford to live independently, and leaving a financial inheritance for children and grandchildren. Empty nest syndrome also weighs heavily, since older generations built their identities around family and sacrificed a great deal to raise their children.
The list also includes paying off debt before retirement, and concern over fading family traditions as their own children grow older. Older generations often become the family's informal counselor, relied upon for stability and advice, which can lead to burnout, according to the report.
Staying connected in the digital age is another source of stress, as older generations once relied on landline calls and in-person meetings, while younger people communicate mostly through social media and text messages. Finally, older generations worry about losing sentimental belongings, since younger generations are less interested in inheriting items they see as clutter and prefer building their own personal style.
YourTango previously reported that psychologists identified 10 old-fashioned values held dear by people born in the 1940s through 1960s that mean little to today's youth.
