It’s easy to hear people say that the world is going downhill, but not everyone sees it that way.
While some argue that society has lost its way, a lot of boomers in particular actually think life has improved in ways that are often overlooked. Whether it’s advances in technology, greater freedoms, or everyday conveniences, some changes have made life easier, not harder. Life might be very different these days than it was when they were younger, but they still think the world has got better in some pretty important ways.
1. Medical advancements have made life expectancy longer.
When boomers were young, a serious illness or injury could be a life-threatening event, but modern medicine has changed that dramatically. From vaccines to cancer treatments to life-saving surgeries, healthcare has improved in ways that people in the past could only dream of. Diseases that were once common and deadly are now preventable or easily treatable. Even everyday medicine has come a long way, with better pain relief, mental health treatments, and faster diagnoses. While there are still issues with healthcare systems, there’s no denying that medical advancements have given people the chance to live longer, healthier lives.
2. Communication is easier and faster than ever.
There was a time when staying in touch meant handwritten letters or expensive long-distance phone calls. Now, with smartphones, video calls, and instant messaging, it’s never been easier to connect with loved ones, no matter where they are. Boomers who remember waiting weeks for a letter from a friend overseas see modern communication as nothing short of incredible. Whether it’s sharing photos, keeping up with family, or rekindling old friendships, technology has made staying connected effortless. While some may argue that screens have taken over, a lot of boomers appreciate how much easier it is to keep relationships alive.
3. Shopping is more convenient than ever.
Not long ago, shopping meant physically going to a store, hoping they had what you needed, and carrying it home. Now, with online shopping, people can get almost anything delivered to their doorstep with a few clicks. This has been a game-changer, especially for older generations, who don’t always want to deal with crowded shops or heavy bags. From groceries to prescriptions to clothing, the ability to shop from home has made life significantly easier. Even those who still prefer in-store shopping can appreciate the convenience of having more options than ever before.
4. Cars are safer and more reliable.
Most boomers remember a time when car breakdowns were common and safety features were almost non-existent. Seat belts weren’t even standard in older cars, let alone airbags, backup cameras, or automatic braking systems. Modern cars are not only safer, but they last longer and require less maintenance. Driving is now a much more comfortable and secure experience, with better fuel efficiency, navigation systems, and even electric vehicles reducing reliance on petrol. For those who spent their early years dealing with unreliable engines and dodgy brakes, the improvements in car safety and technology are undeniable.
5. Travel is more affordable and accessible.
There was a time when air travel was a luxury reserved for the wealthy, but now, flying is more affordable and accessible to more people. Budget airlines, online bookings, and international travel deals have made it easier than ever to explore the world. For boomers who grew up in an era where most families never travelled abroad, the ability to visit new countries and experience different cultures is something they don’t take for granted. Even train and coach travel has improved, making getting around more comfortable and convenient.
6. Workplaces are safer and more worker-friendly.
Decades ago, workplace safety wasn’t always a priority, and things like paid holidays, sick leave, and fair wages weren’t guaranteed. A lot of boomers worked in environments where injuries were common, and job security was far from certain. Today, labour laws, health and safety regulations, and fairer work conditions have significantly improved. While no system is perfect, many people can acknowledge that workers today have better protections than they did. The idea of work-life balance is now taken more seriously, and flexible working options have made jobs more sustainable for many people.
7. People have more freedom to be themselves.
Many of them grew up in a time when strict social expectations limited how people could express themselves. Whether it was gender roles, career choices, or personal identity, the pressure to fit into a certain mould was much stronger. Now, society is far more accepting, allowing people to live authentically. While some struggle with certain cultural shifts, a lot of boomers appreciate the progress that has allowed their children and grandchildren to feel more free in their own skin. The ability to choose your own path without fear of judgment is something they recognise as a positive change.
8. Education is more widely available.
Higher education was once reserved for the privileged few, but now, more people than ever have access to learning opportunities. Scholarships, online courses, and adult education programs have made it possible for anyone to expand their knowledge, regardless of age or background. Even outside of formal education, the internet has made learning easier. Boomers who once relied on libraries for information now have access to free knowledge at their fingertips, making lifelong learning more possible than ever.
9. Everyday tasks are easier thanks to smart technology.
From banking to booking appointments to organising daily life, technology has taken a lot of hassle out of everyday tasks. Many boomers remember having to physically visit the bank for every transaction or spend hours dealing with paperwork. Now, most things can be done in minutes online. Even simple things like voice assistants, smart home devices, and automatic reminders have made life easier. While technology has its downsides, there’s no denying that it has simplified many aspects of daily living.
10. More awareness of mental health can only be a good thing.
In the past, mental health struggles were often ignored or dismissed, with little understanding or support available. Now, there is far more awareness, and people are encouraged to talk about their struggles rather than suffer in silence. A lot of boomers wish this level of openness had existed when they were younger. From therapy being more accessible to workplaces recognising the importance of mental well-being, the shift in attitude has made life better for many. The stigma around mental health isn’t gone, but progress has been made.
11. Food choices are more varied and accessible.
Supermarkets today are filled with foods from all over the world, making it easier than ever to try different cuisines. Boomers grew up with limited options, especially in smaller towns where certain ingredients were hard to find. Now, there’s a wider variety of fresh, organic, and international foods available. Whether it’s dietary options, plant-based alternatives, or healthier convenience foods, the range of choices has expanded massively. For those who remember when mealtimes were more restricted, the diversity of today’s food scene is a major improvement.
12. Entertainment is more accessible.
There was a time when watching a film meant going to the cinema or waiting for it to air on TV. Now, streaming services have put an entire world of entertainment at people’s fingertips. Music, books, and television are all more accessible than ever. Boomers who once had to carefully time their evenings around scheduled TV programmes can now watch what they want, when they want. The ease of entertainment has made relaxing at home far more enjoyable.
13. Banking and finances are easier to manage.
There was a time when handling money meant waiting in long bank queues, writing cheques, and manually balancing accounts. Now, online banking, mobile payments, and instant transfers have made managing finances quicker and more convenient. Many boomers appreciate how much simpler it is to pay bills, transfer money, or check their balance without needing to visit a branch. While some still prefer traditional banking, most acknowledge that digital banking has made life easier. Being able to access accounts at any time and automate payments has removed a lot of the stress that used to come with managing money.
14. Retirement is more flexible than it used to be.
For most boomers, retirement used to mean a hard stop at a certain age, whether they were ready or not. Now, there are more options — semi-retirement, remote work, side businesses, and flexible pension plans allow people to transition into retirement at their own pace. This has given many older adults more financial stability and the ability to stay active if they choose. Instead of being forced into full-time retirement, many appreciate the opportunity to work on their own terms. Whether it’s part-time consulting, passion projects, or even just better financial planning options, retirement today feels less restrictive than it once did.
