Baby boomers are those who were born between 1946 and 1964. The Census Bureau estimates, as of July 1, 2005, there were 78.2 million baby boomers in the U.S. The first group of boomers will reach 65 in 2011. By 2020, researchers project 50 million Americans will be 65 or older.

While some boomers are healthier and more active than older folks of a generation ago, chronic health problems are still a concern for many. One study found the rate of obesity was twice as high among baby boomers in their 30s and 40s compared to those in the previous generation. The obesity trend is expected to have a big impact on the future health care system. Researchers expect the number of older people with chronic joint problems or arthritis is expected to double by 2030. Rates of heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes are also expected to increase.

Boomers and Sports Injuries

Health experts say remaining active, eating a sensible diet and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of age-associated disability and help older people maintain their independence. Many boomers continue to stay active as they age. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports nearly one-third of baby boomers in the U.S. participate in some type of sports activity.

As the number of baby boomers in fitness activities increases, so do the number of injuries. The CPSC reports there were more than 1 million sports injuries among those 35 to 54 in 1998. Roughly 365,000 of these injuries were treated in hospital emergency rooms. The activities most associated with injury were bicycling, golf, soccer, basketball, running/exercise, weightlifting and in-line skating.

Rehabilitation Concerns

Many boomers try to do the same kinds of activities at the same intensity as they did when they were younger. Yet, they don't realize that time has taken a toll on their bodies. Even among those in good shape, tendons and ligaments lose some of their elasticity, range of motion in the joints is reduced and muscle mass declines. These age-related changes can increase the risk for sprains and strains. Older people may have more pain in their joints.

When injury occurs, many boomers are anxious to get back into their routines as soon as possible. However, Robert Gotlin, D.O., Sports Medicine Specialist with Beth Israel Medical Center, says patients must remember their older bodies will take longer to heal and recover. The older the patient, the longer the recovery time. Young patients can usually bounce back from an injury in three to four weeks. By middle-age, recovery time may take four to five weeks. For older patients, expect six to seven weeks of recovery. Gotlin says boomers should focus on cardio exercises, such as swimming, walking and treadmills, rather than high-intensity strength training. He also recommends patients work closely with their physician or physical therapist to make the most of a tailored rehab program.

For general information and tips:

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

American College of Sports Medicine

American Council on Exercise

American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine

American Senior Fitness Association

National Institute on Aging