The oldest Baby Boomers turn 80 in 2026

[My Comment] Turning eighty in 2026 is a profound milestone. Born in 1946, you belong to the very first wave of the Baby Boomer generation, a group that has witnessed more technological, social, and global shifts than perhaps any other in history.

At eighty, the phrase "time is precious" stops being a cliché and becomes a lived reality. Here is my perspective on 2026.

1. The Value of the "Present Tense."
By 2026, the world will move at a dizzying digital pace. At eighty, there is a unique power in slowing down. While younger generations are often focused on "becoming," an octogenarian has the privilege of "being."

Quality over Quantity: At this age, you likely have a refined "filter." You no longer waste time on social obligations that don't feed your soul or arguments that don't matter.

The Power of Memory: You carry eight decades of history. In a fast-paced world, your ability to provide context and perspective is a rare and precious gift.

2. The Intersection of Health and Technology
In 2026, reaching eighty is different from it was for previous generations.

The Longevity Dividend: Medical advancements (from personalized medicine to better cardiac care) mean that "eighty is the new seventy." Time is precious because you likely have more active years left than your grandparents did at the same age.

Digital Connection: Technology now allows for instant connection with grandchildren or friends across the globe, making the "time" spent with loved ones more accessible, even if physical distance exists. If only we could get past the password hell so we could make it happen easily.

3. Legacy as a Living Concept
At eighty, "time" is often viewed through the lens of what you leave behind. This isn't just about finances; it’s about emotional inheritance.

Storytelling: There is a renewed urgency to share stories—not just the "what" of your life, but the "why."

Mentorship: Your time is a resource for younger generations navigating an increasingly complex world. Your "precious time" is often best spent as an anchor for others.

4. The Finite Nature of Moments
There is a bittersweet clarity that comes with eighty. You recognize that the number of "firsts" may be dwindling, which makes the "durables"—the morning coffee, the change of seasons, the sound of a loved one's voice—exponentially more valuable.

"The afternoon knows what the morning never suspected." — Robert Frost

A Reflection for 2026
In a world obsessed with the "next big thing," being eighty is an invitation to appreciate the "only thing"—the current moment. You are part of a demographic that is redefining aging, proving that time isn't just "running out," but rather "filling up" with the wisdom of a life well-lived.

Just one thing, I can not seem to slow down. While I can not do the physical things I used to, I have adapted to other interests.