Newsweek discussed with a physician the many reasons why boomers may wash less than their younger counterparts.
A new survey sheds light on a surprising trend among baby boomers: they are one of the least likely of generations to maintain daily hygiene habits, with many skipping regular showers and brushing their teeth less often than recommended.
The CDC suggests brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing to remove dental plaque, and there are no official guidelines when it comes to showering. But a recent survey, conducted by Talker Research of 1,000 respondents, looked into cleanliness habits across four generations—Generation Z, millennials, Generation X, and baby boomers.
The survey found that the Silent Generation and baby boomers are the least consistent in their daily washing and toothbrushing routines. While 35 percent of individuals born between 1997 and 2006 wash twice a day, only 9 percent of boomers maintain this frequency.
Newsweek discussed the results with Dr. Michael Genovese, a physician, who said there are many reasons why some people born between 1946 and 1964 may reduce their hygiene habits with age.
The recent data states that the Silent Generation (36 percent) and baby boomers (24 percent) wash less than once a day. Meanwhile, 21 percent of all respondents report showering twice a day, with Generation Z leading this group, followed by millennials (26 percent). The survey also found 9 percent of boomers brush their teeth less often than daily.
Genovese said that the following age-related factors may influence their relaxed approach to these habits, compare to younger generations.Physical Challenges
Around 92 percent of older adults live with at least one chronic condition, according to The American Psychological Association (APA).
