As they edge toward and through their 50s, younger baby boomers are

Many baby boomers are exercising more, extending their life expectancy and fore- stalling the onset of old age.

experiencing both tough challenges and new opportunities. Longer life spans and a deep desire to remain relevant and youthful mean that boomers can look forward to a variety of lifestyles in their older years.

At the same time, younger boomers may be saddled with commitments to two generations -- their children as well as their aging parents. This reality can place limits on their resources and freedom. Here is a brief look at some of the issues facing the youngest boomers as they move into the latter phase of middle age.

Family matters

Changing family dynamics have also brought up new issues. Since large numbers of boomers started having families later in life, many still have children living at home when they approach retirement age and may also be devoting time and resources to the care of aging parents. In addition, rising numbers of adults are choosing to move back to their family homes due to job loss or difficulty securing that first job after college, meaning a delay in "emptying the nest." With nests no longer being empty, scaling down and selling the large family home is being postponed, along with retirement and other "golden years" activities.

To your health

Boomers are enjoying longer, active life spans and are determined to forestall the onset of old age. At the same time, studies show that many younger boomers will experience serious illnesses earlier in life than past generations and will remain in the work force past retirement age in order to keep their coverage.

Working retirement

Many young boomers are taking a hard look at semi-retirement. They envision an active retirement and see it as a new way of working, rather than a retreat from the world of work. Volunteering is also seen as part of that active retirement, fulfilling a need to contribute and continue feeling vital.

Many baby boomers are exercising more, extending their life expectancy and forestalling the onset of old age.

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