They came of age during rock ‘n’ roll, civil rights marches, and moon landings. However, Baby Boomers often face criticism from younger generations for their choices, habits, and attitudes. The critiques keep rolling in, whether it’s about tech struggles or economic decisions.
Some of the complaints are fair. Others come from cultural shifts and misunderstandings. But the conversation is real. If you’re a Boomer, you’ve probably heard at least a few of these before; maybe from your kids, your coworkers, or even a stranger on social media.
Finger-Pointing at Younger Generations
There’s a running joke that Boomers blame Millennials for everything from the death of napkins to the housing market. Instead of understanding how times have changed, they’re often seen calling out younger folks for being lazy or entitled. This generational finger-wagging creates resentment on both sides.
Resistance to Technology
Many Baby Boomers are perceived as slow to adopt new technology. Think missed Zoom calls, all-caps texts, and confused clicks on streaming apps. According to Pew Research, only 61% of Baby Boomers own a smartphone, compared to 96% of Millennials. That digital gap can make everyday communication frustrating for their younger peers.
Clinging to Traditional Work Ethics
Boomers were raised on the idea that loyalty to a single company could lead to success. Clock in, work hard, retire with a pension. But that model doesn’t exist anymore for many. Younger generations value flexibility and mental health, and they often perceive the work style of Boomers as outdated or even toxic.
Financial Privilege and Housing Access
Many Boomers bought homes when prices were low and wages could keep up. That’s not the case anymore. With student debt and stagnant wages, younger generations are facing significant challenges. Boomers are often criticized for underestimating these challenges, or for telling young people to “just save more” as if that’s the magic fix.
Hanging onto Power Too Long
Boomers still hold most leadership roles in politics and business. Critics argue they’re clogging the pipeline for younger talent. In Congress, the average age is 57.5, and leaders from both parties are frequently well over 70. It’s not about ageism; it’s about making room for new ideas.
Dismissal of Mental Health Concerns
The “tough it out” mindset runs deep. Boomers grew up in a time when therapy was taboo and emotions were kept behind closed doors. So when younger generations speak openly about anxiety or burnout, Boomers sometimes respond with confusion or judgment. That generational disconnect can prevent honest conversations from even starting.
Environmental Impact
Younger people are increasingly anxious about the state of the planet. Boomers, by contrast, came of age in an era of unchecked consumerism. Critics point out that they drove big cars, embraced suburban sprawl, and supported industries with heavy environmental footprints. Today, climate action feels urgent, and the blame often lands on older shoulders.
Pushing Back on Change
Boomers are sometimes accused of digging in their heels, whether it’s new slang, remote work, or evolving gender norms. Fewer Boomers felt positive about changes in workplace culture post-COVID, compared to Gen Z. That generational divide creates tension, especially at work.
Fear of Being “Replaced”
The rise of automation and new technologies makes everyone nervous. But some Boomers express this fear as resistance to younger hires or skepticism about tech-driven industries. This mindset can come across as defensive, especially in fields where innovation is crucial.
Spending and Consumer Habits
Boomers love their stuff. Big homes, brand-name items, and that Costco loyalty. Younger folks, facing a different economy, tend to value experiences and sustainability more. A Deloitte report showed that Millennials and Gen Z are over 50% more likely to support brands with strong environmental and ethical practices, which makes Boomer buying habits look tone-deaf in comparison.
Struggling with Social Issues
Boomers are sometimes viewed as out of step with today’s conversations around gender, race, and identity. Not because they don’t care, but because the language and norms have changed so quickly. A Pew Research study found that fewer Baby Boomers support the use of gender-neutral pronouns, compared to Gen Z.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
How Total Beginners Are Building Wealth Fast in 2025—No Experience Needed
How Total Beginners Are Building Wealth Fast in 2025
I used to think investing was something you did after you were already rich. Like, you needed $10,000 in a suit pocket and a guy named Chad at some fancy firm who knew how to “diversify your portfolio.” Meanwhile, I was just trying to figure out how to stretch $43 to payday.
But a lot has changed. And fast. In 2025, building wealth doesn’t require a finance degree—or even a lot of money. The tools are simpler. The entry points are lower. And believe it or not, total beginners are stacking wins just by starting small and staying consistent.
Click here and let’s break down how.
5 Easy Steps to Change Any Habit
5 Easy Steps to Change Any Habit
We all click on them with the hope that just THIS time the secret to changing a bad habit or adopting a healthy one will be revealed and we’ll finally be able to stick to that diet, stop that one or ten things that might in the moment make us feel temporarily good but really just make us fat, unhealthy, sad, mad or just frustrated with ourselves.
