GEN Z AND AN AGING SOCIETY
There is no shortage of marketing reports with insights on the habits, wishes and troubles of Gen Z. Win the heart of this generation and engage them commercially, is the focal point of these reports. Older generations such as Gen X and the Baby Boomers seem not to generate similar interest, even though they will soon form the larger proportion of the global population. One recurring topic, other than the shopping habits of Gen Z, is the acute eco-anxiety that preoccupies their mind. We are however yet to uncover generation Z’s role in the global ageing population and what their vision is for the future of the older generation.
The number of 60+ has doubled since 1980 and is expected to double again by 2050 to comprise 22% of the global population. The decline in fertility and advances in medical science are some of the key factors to this demographic shift. A longer life has the potential to bring more opportunities, both for the older people, their families and societies as a whole.
As Gen Z are stepping into the workforce, they will be expected to operate in multigenerational workplaces and sometimes work alongside 3 – 4 other generations. With each age group bringing their distinct perspectives, values, motivation and communication style into the world of work, it is important for Gen Z to gain good knowledge of the intergenerational differences, in order to easier navigate their career and make good use of the older generations’ accumulated experiences and knowledge. Cross generational mentoring will be the key to bridging the generational gap and exchanging skills in workplaces. The ageing workforce in the coming years will require Gen Z to provide constructive leadership for older coworkers. By understanding the wide cultural nuances of ageing, there will also be a pool of opportunities for thriving and creative entrepreneurship and winning the heart of a diverse older demographic.
Whilst Robotics and VR are making advances in becoming an integral part of senior healthcare, it is in the hands of creative practitioners of Generation Z to counteract the lack of human interaction, robotics technology can cause. Societies will be relying on creative thinkers to shine a spotlight on the 60+. This September, 30 students across LCC will be participating in Transforming Ageing which is briefed by the Design Council and facilitated by LCC MA Service Design. During a 2-week design sprint, students will collaboratively work towards creative solutions by gaining understanding of the different aspects of an ageing society and the advantages of intergenerational interaction.
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Words: Hedieh Anvari