Raging in Place

Gen-x aging resources and community

Category: Relationships & Family

Gen X is juggling it all – raising kids, caring for aging parents, and navigating the ups and downs of long-term relationships. This section explores the evolving dynamics of family life, with tips for strengthening bonds, communicating effectively, and building a supportive network. #RelationshipsAndFamily #GenX #Marriage #Parenting

  • The Uncomfortable Comedy of Turning Sixty

    The Uncomfortable Comedy of Turning Sixty

    It seems the inevitable is happening. The generation that perfected the eye-roll is now staring down the barrel of 60. A recent piece from the sharp satirists at McSweeney’s landed with painful, hilarious precision. Titled “Signs You Are a Gen-Xer Who’s About to Turn Sixty,” the article serves as a comedic gut punch for those of us of a certain age.

    A Mirror We Didn’t Ask For

    Lisa Borders, the author, has created a brilliant and cringe-inducing list. It’s an inventory of our current state. Her words hold up a mirror, showing how our youthful “whatever” attitude has morphed into a resigned “well, this is happening.”

    Borders masterfully captures the ironies that define our generation. Consider our music collections. They were once rebellious statements on cassette tapes and CDs. Now, they are museums of obsolete audio formats. Think about hearing a lyric like Trent Reznor’s “I want to fuck you like an animal.” Your first thought might be that the creator is, like us, nearing his seventh decade. Youthful angst simply hits differently when your own joints snap, crackle, and pop.

    The Middle Child Generation Ages

    The piece humorously notes that for a generation largely ignored, our entry into senior citizenry is met with a cultural shrug. This is, as Borders points out, “both the least surprising and most Gen-X thing ever.” We were the latchkey kids. We were the middle children of generations. It seems we are destined to quietly let ourselves into the AARP house, too.

    Our Shared, Cynical Journey

    Beyond the gallows humor, the article taps into a deeper truth. Our journey has been unique. We navigated the shift from analog to digital. We witnessed the end of the Cold War and the beginning of the culture wars. Through it all, we maintained a healthy dose of skepticism. These shared experiences forged a unique sensibility. We now apply that same sensibility to the indignities of aging.

    So, what now? We find ourselves on more medications than our parents. Our “whatever, nevermind” mantra is now a genuine response to daily aches and pains. Yet, there is comfort in the shared, slightly bitter, laughter. We may not have had a Woodstock. But we have a unique brand of resilience. We have a finely tuned sense of irony to carry us into this next chapter. As we reluctantly trade our Doc Martens for something with more arch support, we can at least take solace in being in on the joke.

  • Why an Aging Advocate Might Be Your Best Ally

    Why an Aging Advocate Might Be Your Best Ally

    As we journey through life, the idea of “aging gracefully” can sometimes feel elusive. This is especially true for Generation X, often juggling our own needs with those of aging parents. But what if a professional could help us and our loved ones manage this journey with more clarity? A recent article from the Cross Timbers Gazette, “Aging In Style With Lori Williams: Why You Need An Aging Advocate,” introduces a vital role: the aging advocate.

    What Does an Aging Advocate Do?

    The article spotlights Lori Williams, an aging advocate. She acts as a personal guide through the often-complex landscape of later-life planning and care. Think of an advocate as a skilled project manager for aging. They can help coordinate healthcare and explore living options. They also connect individuals with legal and financial resources. Crucially, they ensure people understand and respect an individual’s wishes.

    Why This Matters for Generation X

    Many of us find navigating Medicare, long-term care options, or downsizing a home overwhelming. This applies whether it’s for ourselves or our parents. An aging advocate offers expertise and an objective viewpoint in these situations. The Cross Timbers Gazette article notes their role isn’t just for crises, though they are invaluable then. Ideally, an advocate helps with proactive planning. This allows individuals to make informed choices supporting their desire to “age in style.” This means maintaining autonomy and quality of life for as long as possible.

    This concept particularly appeals to those of us who value independence and practical solutions. We have spent our lives solving problems. As we approach new life stages or support our parents, having a knowledgeable professional makes sense. It helps ensure thoughtful handling of transitions, rather than reactive decisions during stress. An advocate can decipher jargon, present options clearly, and mediate family discussions. This eases the burden on everyone.

    Proactive Support in a Complex World

    Today’s support systems may differ from what we once knew. Families often live further apart. The sheer volume of information on elder care can also be daunting. An aging advocate filters through this noise. They provide tailored advice and a steady hand, offering much-needed guidance.

    As we consider our futures or assist aging relatives, understanding the benefits of an aging advocate is a proactive step. It represents an investment in peace of mind. It’s a commitment to navigating later years with dignity and informed choice, instead of feeling lost among complex decisions. The support of an advocate might just be key to keeping the focus on living well, at any age.

  • Seven Metro Atlanta Communities to Receive Planning Assistance with a Focus on Aging in Place

    Seven Metro Atlanta Communities to Receive Planning Assistance with a Focus on Aging in Place

    The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) has chosen seven recipients for its 2025 Community Development Assistance Program (CDAP). This program offers vital planning and technical support to improve life quality across metro Atlanta. The selected projects tackle key regional issues, such as affordable housing and historic preservation. These are especially relevant concerns for the aging Generation X demographic.

    Several awarded projects directly or indirectly support Generation X’s ability to age in their own homes affordably. For instance, Rockdale County will receive ARC staff support for a housing assessment. This aims to plan for growth, offer accessible senior housing, and create varied housing options. Given that many in Generation X are managing care for older parents alongside their own retirement plans, developing accessible and affordable senior housing is essential. It supports their parents’ well-being and their own capacity to age in place.

    Furthermore, Clayton County and the cities of Lake City, Lovejoy, Forest Park, Riverdale, and Jonesboro will jointly receive a $200,000 grant for a housing market analysis. Their goal is to pinpoint areas for improvement and develop strategies for more accessible and affordable housing for all residents. This directly affects Generation X, who are increasingly worried about rising living costs and maintaining their homes as they age. Moreover, the focus on accessible housing aligns with the needs of older adults and those with mobility challenges within this generation.

    In Cherokee County, the Pearidge community will be the focus of a planning study on affordability and historic preservation, with ARC staff assistance. As Generation X increasingly values community character and history, preserving these aspects while ensuring affordability is vital for their long-term well-being and desire to remain in their communities. Additionally, the City of Forest Park will undertake the Blacksville Green Space and Resiliency Plan. This study aims to boost community resilience by creating more green spaces and beautification projects. Access to green spaces and environmental sustainability are increasingly important to Generation X as they consider their long-term health and the livability of their communities as they age.

    While the other awarded projects—the City of Decatur Heat Mitigation Strategy, the Douglas Boulevard Economic Envisioning Plan (City of Douglasville), and the City of South Fulton Comprehensive Plan Update—do not directly address aging in place, their efforts to enhance infrastructure, economic vitality, and environmental conditions will contribute to more sustainable and desirable communities for all generations. Consequently, this includes Generation X as they navigate midlife and plan for the future.

    For Generation X, now in their late 40s and 50s, the ability to age in their current communities is a significant consideration. Factors such as affordable housing, accessibility, and available support services are crucial for making this a reality. These CDAP awards represent a positive move towards meeting these needs in the Atlanta region.

  • Aging in Place: Not a Level Playing Field for Everyone

    Aging in Place: Not a Level Playing Field for Everyone

    A recent McGill University study sheds light on the unequal realities of aging in place. This concept, where individuals grow older in their own homes, is often seen as ideal. However, researchers discovered that social factors significantly influence who can achieve this.

    Surprisingly, higher education levels correlated with a lower likelihood of aging in place. Researchers suggest this might be due to having children later and fewer children, leading to less informal care. Longer lifespans among the more educated may also necessitate more advanced care.

    Conversely, greater financial resources and stronger social ties increased the chances of aging in place. This makes sense, as these factors provide the means to modify homes and access necessary support. The study also found that rural residents, racial and ethnic minorities, and immigrants were more likely to age within their communities. This could stem from limited access to care facilities, strong community bonds, or cultural norms favoring family care.

    For Generation X, this research offers a stark outlook. We often value our independence. Yet, as we approach our later years, these findings highlight potential disparities. Economic challenges and evolving family structures within our generation could hinder our ability to age in place smoothly. Many Gen X individuals in the “sandwich generation” already face the strain of caring for both parents and children, potentially depleting resources and support.

    This research underscores the urgency for policymakers to address the social factors affecting aging in place. Implementing fair policies and programs is vital to ensure all older adults can remain in their homes and communities as long as possible. As McGill researchers continue to investigate these inequities in Quebec, their work can inform broader strategies to support diverse aging populations.

    Reference:

    Bolster-Foucault, C., et al. (2025). Social inequity in ageing in place among older adults in Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development countries: a mixed studies systematic review. 1 Age and Ageing, afae166. https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae166  

  • Woman’s Message About Being ‘Forgotten About Again’ Resonates Deeply

    Woman’s Message About Being ‘Forgotten About Again’ Resonates Deeply

    The digital echo chamber lit up recently with a message that struck a nerve, a raw articulation of a feeling many of us in Generation X are starting to recognize with a disconcerting familiarity. A woman’s post, detailed in a recent Newsweek article, lamented the feeling of being “forgotten about again,” a sentiment that quickly went viral. It speaks to a growing unease as we navigate midlife and the shifting sands of societal attention.

    For a generation that once defined cool, set trends, and felt very much at the center of the cultural conversation, this sense of fading into the background can be jarring. We remember a time when our music, our movies, our very way of looking at the world held sway. Now, the spotlight has shifted, as it inevitably does. But the feeling described isn’t just about a natural changing of the guard; it’s about something more profound – a sense of being actively overlooked.

    The article touches on the societal biases that contribute to this feeling, particularly for women as they age. But it’s a sentiment that likely resonates across the spectrum of our generation. We are the sandwich generation, often juggling the demands of raising children and caring for aging parents, all while navigating our own careers and personal evolution. To feel invisible in the midst of this multifaceted experience adds another layer of complexity.

    Are we truly being “forgotten”? Perhaps not entirely. Our contributions are still significant, our experiences vast, and our perspectives valuable. But the feeling articulated in the Newsweek piece serves as a potent reminder of the importance of staying engaged, of continuing to make our voices heard, and of challenging the societal tendency to sideline those who are no longer in the perceived “prime” of youth.

    This isn’t about clinging to the past or demanding center stage. It’s about recognizing the inherent worth and ongoing relevance of every stage of life. As Generation X, we have a unique perspective shaped by our experiences, and that perspective deserves to be acknowledged. This viral message is a wake-up call to ensure that we, and those who come after us in the aging process, are not simply relegated to the background noise of a youth-obsessed culture.

  • The Silent Rise of Caregiving: How Generation X is Increasingly Stepping Up for Aging Parents

    The Silent Rise of Caregiving: How Generation X is Increasingly Stepping Up for Aging Parents

    The Growing Role of Gen X in Caring for Aging Parents

    A recent study from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the University of Michigan’s Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation shows a notable trend. The number of family caregivers supporting older adults rose by 32% between 2011 and 2022. This increase, from 18.2 million to 24.1 million individuals, highlights the growing demands on families. More older adults wish to stay in their homes longer, increasing the need for family support.

    Shifts in Caregiving Demographics

    The research, published in Health Affairs, indicates changes in both caregivers and those receiving care. In 2022, caregivers more often assisted older adults who were younger and better educated. Male older adults were also more likely to receive care from family. For older adults with dementia, their care networks remained the same size. However, caregivers for dementia patients reported a nearly 50% increase in weekly care hours. These hours grew from 21.4 in 2011 to 31.0 in 2022. This rise in care hours for dementia patients may relate to more caregivers living with those they support.

    The Impact on Generation X

    For many in their late 40s and 50s, this news likely feels familiar. Generation X is often called the “sandwich generation.” They are balancing raising their children with the increasing responsibility of caring for their aging parents. The study’s findings suggest greater pressure on this demographic. While the study did not specifically focus on Generation X, the large increase in caregivers indicates that many in this age group are taking on these roles.

    Reduced Use of Support Services

    The researchers also found a concerning trend. Despite greater care demands, caregivers reported less use of support services. These include respite care and support groups. This could mean a lack of awareness of these resources. It might also indicate difficulties in accessing them. Or, caregivers might simply be too overwhelmed to seek help.

    The Need for Policy Changes

    The study’s authors stress the urgent need for stronger support systems for family caregivers. They argue that current efforts are often fragmented and insufficient. They do not adequately address the financial, emotional, and physical challenges caregivers face. The population of adults aged 85 and older is expected to triple by 2050. This will only increase the demands on family caregivers.

    For Generation X, this is more than just data. It is their lived experience. Many are navigating complex care arrangements. They are juggling work and family with the added responsibility of caring for aging parents. Acknowledging the growing prevalence and intensity of family caregiving is crucial. It recognizes the significant contributions and sacrifices of this often-overlooked group. It also highlights the critical need for accessible resources and supportive policies to aid them through this challenging life stage.

  • Aging in Place Strategy Powers Serenbe’s $1.7 Billion Expansion

    Aging in Place Strategy Powers Serenbe’s $1.7 Billion Expansion

    A significant residential expansion is underway at Serenbe, a luxury community southwest of Atlanta, with a distinct focus on catering to older buyers seeking to “age in place.” Developer Steve Nygren, known for his previous ventures in the Atlanta restaurant scene, aims to nearly triple the number of residences in the Chattahoochee Hills development. The ambitious $1.7 billion project also includes plans for commercial spaces.

    According to a report by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Nygren’s vision for Serenbe involves 1,100 new residential units alongside a hotel, offices, retail spaces, restaurants, and civic and educational facilities. The 1,532-acre development’s initial phase will feature 97 units specifically designed for older adults, the 110-room Selborne Hotel, an expansion of the private Terra School, and new arts performance venues. Plans also include 235,000 square feet of commercial space, 75,000 square feet for civic purposes, two school buildings, and up to 180 hotel rooms. A 45,000-square-foot office building is in the works near the hotel, with construction slated to begin once 60% of the space is pre-leased.

    Serenbe, already known for its emphasis on nature and wellness and attracting high-profile residents, secured an $11 million tax break from the Development Authority of Fulton County in 2023 to support this expansion. Despite potential headwinds from rising construction costs and economic uncertainties, the project will be rolled out in phases, with an anticipated completion between 2029 and 2035.

    The focus on “aging in place” reflects a growing trend in senior housing, prioritizing options that allow individuals to remain within their communities as they age. This approach emphasizes accessible housing and services that meet the diverse needs of older adults.

    For members of Generation X, many of whom are now facing the realities of their parents aging and are beginning to consider their own long-term living arrangements, this development offers a glimpse into future possibilities. The integration of housing for various age groups within a community focused on wellness could appeal to those who value intergenerational living and access to amenities that support an active and healthy lifestyle as they age. The emphasis on nature, farm-to-table food options, and wellness facilities within Serenbe aligns with values often held by this demographic.

  • Excellent PBS Documentary “Aging in America: Survive or Thrive”

    Excellent PBS Documentary “Aging in America: Survive or Thrive”

    A new PBS documentary, “Aging in America: Survive or Thrive,” narrated by Martin Sheen, takes a timely look at the realities of growing older in the United States. Inspired by Dr. Robert Butler’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1975 book, “Why Survive? Being Old in America,” the film examines both the progress made and the significant challenges that remain for an aging population.

    The documentary highlights the dramatic increase in life expectancy over the past century, a cause for celebration. However, it also delves into critical issues such as ageism, the inadequacies of the current healthcare system in addressing the needs of older adults, rising economic insecurity, and the impact of Alzheimer’s disease. Through expert interviews and personal stories, the film paints a picture of a demographic facing unprecedented public policy challenges.

    For those of us in Generation X, now squarely in middle age, these issues resonate deeply. We are not only witnessing our parents navigate these complexities but are also beginning to confront our own aging journeys. The documentary’s exploration of ageism, for instance, hits home as we see societal biases against older individuals potentially impacting our own career trajectories and self-perceptions. The concerns around healthcare and economic security are also salient as we plan for our futures while potentially supporting older family members.

    The film also touches on the positive aspects of increased longevity, showcasing individuals who find new purpose and meaning in their later years. This offers a counterpoint to the challenges, suggesting that with the right societal support and individual mindset, these can be years of continued growth and engagement.

    “Aging in America: Survive or Thrive” serves as a crucial reminder that while we are living longer, ensuring a high quality of life for our aging population requires a fundamental shift in how we think about and address the needs of older adults. It calls for a collective responsibility to create a society where everyone has the opportunity not just to survive, but to thrive in their later years.

  • Trump Changes to Medicaid – What Possible CalAIM Changes Means for Midlife Californians

    Trump Changes to Medicaid – What Possible CalAIM Changes Means for Midlife Californians

    California’s healthcare system is changing significantly. This is due to CalAIM, the state’s large initiative to reform Medi-Cal. The program can seem complex. This is especially true for those in midlife, perhaps caring for aging parents. Still, understanding its main goals is important. A recent CalMatters article discusses the program’s evolution. It offers insights into how it aims to change healthcare for many Californians.

    The CalMatters piece explains CalAIM. The name stands for California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal. It is moving away from the old fee-for-service model. The new approach is more integrated and focused on the individual. The key idea is to link physical health, behavioral health, and social support services. These services are now under managed care. This includes “enhanced care management” for people with complicated needs. It also offers “community supports.” These address non-medical factors affecting health. Examples include unstable housing, food insecurity, or lack of transportation.

    This initiative is relevant for Generation X. We are often managing careers and families. We are also increasingly dealing with our parents’ health needs. CalAIM mainly targets Medi-Cal members. However, its focus on coordinated care could affect the wider healthcare system. As our parents get older, managing their healthcare becomes a key issue. This may involve Medi-Cal. CalAIM wants to simplify services. It also offers new supports. These could include help getting healthy meals or modifying a home. Such aid could lighten the load for family caregivers.

    Looking ahead, understanding programs like CalAIM is preparing for our own future. The initiative aims to help people stay in their homes. It provides support in the home and community. This matches what many people want as they age. The full effects of CalAIM will be seen over time. However, its goals show a move towards a more complete and preventive healthcare approach.

    Implementing a program as large as CalAIM has challenges. It’s an ongoing effort to ensure smooth coordination among providers. Connecting eligible people with new services is also key. But the basic ideas are promising. Integrating care and addressing health’s root causes are good steps. They move towards a more effective and fair healthcare system for everyone in California. This includes those of us in the “sandwich generation” and beyond.

    Staying informed about CalAIM and similar plans is wise. It helps us better advocate for our own health. It also helps us support our loved ones. We can navigate the changing healthcare landscape better. We will have a clearer idea of available resources and services.

    Reference:

    [Author Name/CalMatters Staff]. (Date of Publication). [Paste Article Title Here]. CalMatters. https://calmatters.org/health/2025/04/medicaid-waiver-calaim/

    Reference:

    Name Of Author. (Date of Publication). Paste Article Title Here. CalMatters. https://calmatters.org/health/2025/04/medicaid-waiver-calaim/

  • The Unavoidable Talk: Planning for Aging in Michigan (Whether We Like It Or Not)

    The Unavoidable Talk: Planning for Aging in Michigan (Whether We Like It Or Not)

    Let’s be honest. For many of us navigating midlife, the concept of “aging” still feels like something that happens to other people. We’re often in the thick of the sandwich generation, perhaps caring for aging parents while still launching our own children. Frankly, the idea of proactively planning for our own later years frequently gets pushed to the back burner. It’s often filed under “things I’ll deal with eventually.”

    However, a recent article in The Manchester Mirror, “How to Plan for Aging in Michigan, or Take Care of Others: What to Know,” serves as a not-so-subtle reminder that “eventually” is rapidly approaching. While the piece focuses on the specifics of navigating the landscape in Michigan, its core message resonates universally. This is particularly true for those in the Generation X cohort who are now staring down the barrel of our 50s and beyond.

    Laying the Groundwork: Decisions and Finances

    The article lays out practical steps that, while perhaps not the most thrilling topics, are undeniably crucial. It emphasizes the importance of designating decision-makers through documents like powers of attorney. This might feel morbid, but it is a vital safeguard. The piece also tackles the less-than-comfortable subject of long-term care. It highlights the potentially staggering costs in Michigan and the need to consider options like long-term care insurance, despite its expense.

    For our generation, many of whom are still managing significant debt, including student loans and credit card balances, the article’s point about getting finances in order hits close to home. The notion that we might outlive our savings if we retire at the conventional age is a stark reminder of the need for diligent planning. This could involve adjusting our retirement timelines or savings strategies.

    Beyond the Paperwork: Home and Health

    Beyond the financial and legal aspects, the article touches on personal, yet equally important, facets of aging. It advocates for having “careversations” with family. These are open discussions about future needs and preferences, ideally held before a crisis hits. The piece also wisely suggests evaluating our current living situations. Consider whether our homes and communities will be suitable as we age and our mobility or needs change. The idea of counting stairs and assessing the walkability of our neighborhoods might seem minor, but these practicalities become significant factors in maintaining independence.

    Stay Active, Stay Connected

    Perhaps one of the most compelling points is the emphasis on staying active and engaged. As the article notes, even with finances and paperwork in order, retirement can bring a sense of quiet isolation. Staying connected through volunteering or even part-time work is crucial for well-being and cognitive health. This fact is supported by research on “superagers.”

    While acknowledging the challenges within Michigan’s current senior care system, the article ultimately underscores the power of proactive planning. For those of us who tend to approach aging with a healthy dose of reluctance, this isn’t about embracing getting older with open arms. It is about pragmatism. It means making informed decisions now to maintain control and quality of life in the future. It also helps alleviate potential burdens on our loved ones. It’s time to move “eventually” to the top of our to-do lists.