In 2021, the first of the 78 million Baby Boomers turned 75, and by 2030, those 65 and older will account for 20% of the U.S. population. Although seniors control 70% of disposable income and make 50% of all consumer purchases, most current marketing campaigns devote less than 10% of their budgets to this vital and vibrant market! It is imperative that the strategic communication professions take note of this oncoming silver tsunami and learn to make the most of it. This supplementary textbook, suitable for both undergrad and graduate students, explains how longevity has affected and must continue to affect marketing and advertising practitioners. While students rarely gear their professional paths towards elderly markets, engaging with the senior sectors can lead to an incredibly rewarding and successful career.

Anne M. Cooper worked for 10 years full time as a journalist, magazine editor and public relations practitioner before beginning a 26-year teaching career at Ohio University. During that career, she was the graduate director at the E.W. Scrips School of Journalism. A Fulbright Senior Research Scholar in Japan and a DAAD scholar in Germany, she has written/coauthored/edited five previous books and numerous journal articles. Her work has been featured in the Sunday New York Times on ABC-TV, the BBC and other media outlets.