Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, have seen the world change a lot. From rotary phones to smartphones, they’ve adapted to many new things. But some old habits die hard. These folks have certain ways of doing things that might seem a bit outdated to younger generations.
In this article, I’ll take a fun look at 25 habits that many Boomers just can’t seem to shake.
Writing checks
While most people use cards or apps to pay, many Boomers still pull out their checkbooks. They carefully write out the amount and sign each check. For them, it feels more real than tapping a card. Plus, they like having a paper record of their spending.
Printing out emails
Some Boomers treat emails like old-fashioned letters. They print out important ones to keep in a file. It’s their way of making sure they don’t lose the information. For them, having a hard copy feels more secure than trusting everything to stay on the computer.
Keeping a phone book
Despite smartphones with all our contacts, some Boomers keep a paper phone book. They write down numbers and addresses by hand. It’s comforting to have all that info in one place they can touch. Plus, they don’t have to worry about a dead battery to find a number.
Reading physical newspapers
Many Boomers start their day with a real newspaper, not a news app. They like the feel of paper and the ritual of turning pages. Reading the paper over breakfast is a habit they’ve had for years. It’s their way of staying connected to the world.
Using cash instead of cards
While younger folks tap cards for everything, many Boomers prefer cash. They like the tangible feel of money and find it easier to budget. Some worry about credit card fraud or overspending with cards. For them, cash is king.
Leaving voicemails
Younger generations might prefer texting, but Boomers often leave detailed voicemails. They see it as polite and personal. They might even get frustrated when they can’t leave a message. For them, hearing someone’s voice is important.
Keeping photo albums
Despite digital photos, many Boomers still print pictures and put them in albums. They enjoy flipping through pages of memories, which is a way to share stories with family and friends. For them, photos aren’t real unless they can hold them.
Using a desktop computer instead of a smartphone
While smartphones can do almost everything, some Boomers prefer their trusty desktop computers. They find the bigger screen easier to see and the keyboard easier to type on. It’s what they’re used to, and they see no reason to change.
Watching cable TV
Streaming services are popular, but many Boomers stick with cable TV. They like having a set schedule of shows and flipping through channels. The idea of searching for something to watch online feels complicated, but cable is familiar and comfortable for them.
Keeping a landline phone
Even with cell phones, many Boomers keep their home phone. They trust it to work during power outages and emergencies. Some find the sound quality better than cell phones. Plus, it’s the number they’ve had for years – everyone knows it.
Clipping coupons
While there are coupon apps, many Boomers still clip paper coupons from newspapers and flyers. They enjoy the process of finding deals and organizing their coupons. It’s a habit that makes them feel smart and thrifty. For them, it’s a satisfying way to save money.
Using paper maps
GPS is handy, but some Boomers prefer good old paper maps. They like seeing the whole route at once and planning their trips. Folding and unfolding maps is part of their travel experience. Plus, they don’t have to worry about losing signal or battery life.
Writing in cursive
Many schools don’t teach cursive anymore, but Boomers still use it. They find it faster and more personal than printing. Some even feel proud of their handwriting skills. For them, a handwritten note in cursive is more special than a typed message.
Keeping a physical address book
Despite contact lists on phones, many Boomers maintain a written address book. They like having all their contacts in one place they can easily flip through. It’s also a record of their relationships over the years. Some find comfort in seeing the handwriting of people who have passed away.
Using a kitchen timer instead of a phone app
When it comes to cooking, many Boomers reach for a physical timer instead of their phone. They trust the loud ring to alert them when food is done. It’s a simple tool that doesn’t require any setup or apps. For them, it’s just easier and more reliable.
Balancing a checkbook
Even with online banking, some Boomers still balance their checkbooks by hand. They like keeping track of every penny spent and deposited. It makes them feel in control of their finances, and it’s a way to catch mistakes and avoid overdrafts.
Reading physical books
E-readers are convenient, but many Boomers prefer real books. They enjoy the feel of pages and the smell of paper. Browsing bookstores is still their favorite activity. Plus, they like seeing their book collection on shelves at home.
Making phone calls instead of texting
While younger folks might text for everything, Boomers often prefer to call. They find it more personal and efficient to talk directly. Some find texting slow and frustrating. For them, a quick call is easier than a long text conversation.
Using a separate camera
Smartphone cameras are great, but some Boomers still use dedicated cameras for important events. They trust the quality and like having a device just for photos. Some enjoy the process of setting up shots and changing lenses. It makes taking pictures feel more special.
Keeping a wall calendar
Despite digital calendars, many Boomers hang a paper calendar on their wall. They like seeing the whole month at a glance and writing down appointments. It’s a visual reminder of what’s coming up. Plus, they enjoy choosing a new calendar design each year.
Using a paper boarding pass
While most people use mobile boarding passes, some Boomers prefer to print theirs. They worry about phone batteries dying or apps not working, so having a paper ticket feels more secure to them. Plus, they like having souvenirs from their trips.
Watching the nightly news on TV
Many Boomers structure their evenings around watching the news on TV. It’s a habit they’ve had for years. They trust specific anchors and channels. For them, it’s a way to stay informed and feel connected to the world.
Using a recipe box
Despite online recipe sites, many Boomers keep a box of handwritten recipe cards. These often include family recipes passed down through generations. They enjoy the nostalgia of seeing recipes in loved ones’ handwriting. For them, cooking from these cards feels more personal than following a recipe on a screen.
Keeping a bedside alarm clock
While most people use phone alarms, many Boomers still have alarm clocks by their beds. They find it easier to see the time at night without reaching for a phone. Some worry about phone notifications disturbing their sleep, so a simple alarm clock feels more restful to them.
Reading instruction manuals
When they get a new gadget, many Boomers read the entire manual before using it. They want to understand all the features and avoid making mistakes. Younger folks might just start using things right away, but Boomers prefer to be prepared. For them, it’s the responsible way to handle new technology.
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