Are Gen Z setting the standard in Preventative health?

Why are Millennials and Baby Boomers so captivated by Gen Z?

Is it because they've learned from our mistakes, or perhaps because they represent the children of the Baby Boomers, embodying everything they wished they were?

As a Millennial, I can't deny my curiosity whenever I stumble upon an article or social media post about what Gen Z is advocating—from fashion trends to social behaviors. While these insights may not always change my habits, they certainly keep me intrigued, preventing me from feeling outdated prematurely.

Each generation faces its own trials and triumphs, influenced by the lessons passed down from previous generations and the personal wounds inherited along the way. It's human nature to look both forward and backward for guidance, seeking to learn from the past while preparing for the future.

In my work as a dental hygienist and podiatry assistant, I am a preventative health-focused girly. I witness firsthand the evolving attitudes toward preventative health, especially among Gen Z patients. It's remarkable to observe their heightened awareness and understanding of their overall well-being compared to their generational counterparts. Despite not always putting their knowledge into practice, they possess a remarkable grasp of preventive health principles—a trend that piqued my interest and led me to delve deeper, especially when I was developing our prefabricated orthotics.

In the aftermath of a global health crisis, Gen Z emerges as a beacon of proactive health consciousness, reshaping the landscape of preventative health measures. Recent studies underscore Gen Z's unique approach to well-being, emphasizing holistic health. Lenore Taylor recently wrote in the Guardian about the interesting shifts in focus of Gen Z prioritizing "experiences over big nights out," delving into their attitudes toward alcohol consumption for its impact on their overall health (Taylor, 2024).

A 2021 nationwide survey by the Linus group revealed that 70% of Gen Z describe themselves as healthy, prioritizing emotional well-being alongside physical health (Linus Group, 2021). Their commitment to preventive health extends beyond rhetoric, with a significant portion of resources allocated to wellness practices and wearable technology to monitor health parameters, which they then use to influence their behaviors.

In the face of escalating mental health challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, Gen Z's proactive stance on well-being resonates deeply. Research supports the therapeutic benefits of activities like walking, aligning with Gen Z's penchant for preventive measures(Michelle Blowes, 2023).

Several factors contribute to Gen Z's heightened focus on health and wellness. Greater access to health information from a young age, coupled with the global spotlight on health catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic, has shaped their health-conscious mindset. Furthermore, Gen Z seeks social connections in wellness spaces, influencing their preferences for fitness-related social media content and communal wellness experiences (Ma, J., Lin, P. & Williams,2023).

It's evident that Gen Z is redefining what it means to prioritize health and wellness, influencing not only their own behaviors but also shaping broader cultural and industry norms. While I may continue to wear my side part and ankle socks (at least I ditched the skinny jeans), I'll be keeping a keen eye on Gen Z for their wisdom in preventative health literacy. After all, there's much to admire about their proactive approach to well-being, reminding us all to strive for better health, regardless of generational labels.

Reference List:

• Linus Group. (2021). Nationwide survey on Gen Z's self-perception of health.
• Taylor, L. (2024). The rise of booze-free backpacking: why Gen Z are choosing to travel sober. The Guardian.
• Jones, Michelle McKenney. (2022). A Correlational Study to Examine the Relationship Between Wellness Program Usage and Gen Z Engagement in the Workplace. Trevecca Nazarene University. ProQuest Dissertations Publishing, 29326108.5.
• Uche, Sharon. (2023). ‘Negative’ Stereotypes About Gen Z That Will Actually Help Them in the Workplace. 
• Australian Multi-generational Travel Trends. (Expedia Group Report Travel Trends).
• Ma, J., Lin, P., & Williams, J. (2024). Effectiveness of nature-based walking interventions in improving mental health in adults: a systematic review. Current Psychology, 43, 9521–9539. 
• Blowes, Michelle. (2023, March 9). Moving on from COVID means facing its impact on mental health, say experts. Media & PR Adviser (Medicine and Health).