Chiropractic and Culture Trends: Philosophy and Health for the Age Wave
Cynthia J. Lund Bio, C.T., A.L.C.P. (Hon)
Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research ~ April 22, 2005 ~ Pages 1-4
Abstract
Background: A very large generation of people (named “the Age Wave”) with unique characteristics is creating a sweeping influence within our culture. Successful marketers, business people and healthcare professionals know that consideration of this culture trend is essential to providing the consumer with what is wanted and needed now and in the future; chiropractors and chiropractic educators need to pay attention to this trend, as well.
Methods: A literature search was performed using the following search engines: Medline, PubMed, OCLC First Search, Index to Chiropractic Literature, World Cat, Amazon.com, public library, general Internet searching and on-line journals. Combinations of these descriptors were used as search words: chiropractic, marketing, culture trends, baby boomers, age wave, healthcare, complimentary medicine, market-driven.
Results: The Age Wave may be turning toward the invisible, intangible components of existence that pay-off in ability, experience and quality of life. Chiropractic care contains elements that fit perfectly with this emerging need. While using available evidence-based data for a foundation of patient education, other factors (innate intelligence, self-empowerment, relational modes of healing) should be highlighted and may be the ones to influence future patients.
Conclusion: Chiropractors and chiropractic educators can consider the “brand” they project and evaluate it for the approaching marketplace. Patient education programs can be reviewed for effectiveness, given the culture trend occurring. If the 78 million Age Wavers are questioning traditional healthcare, searching for state-of-mind benefits and ways to stay actively involved in one’s own good health, chiropractic should produce the answers to those questions.
Key Words: chiropractic, baby boomers, age wave, culture, health
