20 Comments That Will Definitely Rub a Baby Boomer the Wrong Way
Every generation has its quirks, values, and preferences, and baby boomers are no different. Born between 1946 and 1964, they grew up during a time of dramatic cultural and technological change, which has shaped their perspectives on everything from work to social interactions.
While many baby boomers have adapted to modern trends, some things—especially those that clash with their ingrained beliefs or experiences—can be a source of frustration. Whether it’s about technology, manners, or lifestyle choices, here are 20 ways that might just upset a baby boomer.
Saying “Okay, Boomer”
The phrase “Okay, Boomer” has become a dismissive retort used to brush off the opinions of older generations. For many baby boomers, it feels like a personal attack that diminishes their experiences and viewpoints.
This phrase can be especially upsetting because it undermines respectful dialogue.
Relying Too Much on Technology
Boomers grew up without smartphones, and many feel uncomfortable with how dependent younger generations are on technology. Seeing people glued to their screens can make boomers feel that face-to-face interactions are being lost.
This tech obsession can feel like a disconnect from the values they grew up with.
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Mocking Their Music Taste
Baby boomers take pride in the music they grew up with, from The Beatles to Led Zeppelin. Jokingly dismissing classic rock or claiming today’s music is superior can hit a sensitive nerve.
Their music holds nostalgia, and any criticism of it can be taken personally.
Calling Them Out of Touch
Telling a baby boomer that they’re out of touch with modern trends or technology can feel condescending. They may feel that their life experience is being overlooked or dismissed by younger generations.
Boomers pride themselves on their wisdom, and being labeled “out of touch” diminishes that.
Complaining About Work-Life Balance
Boomers often take pride in a strong work ethic and are used to working long hours without complaining. Hearing complaints about work-life balance or demands for more flexible hours can frustrate them.
To some, this sounds like a lack of dedication, which goes against the values they grew up with.
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Suggesting Retirement as the Only Option
Many baby boomers love staying active in their careers and find fulfillment in their work. Suggesting they retire just because of their age can feel dismissive and devaluing of their contributions.
Boomers often want to stay relevant and engaged rather than being pushed aside.
Criticizing Their Fashion Choices
Boomers often stick to classic, practical fashion choices, which they find comfortable and familiar. Criticizing their style or suggesting that it’s outdated can feel like an unnecessary jab.
They take pride in the way they present themselves and may not appreciate fashion-focused critiques.
Using Slang They Don’t Understand
Throwing around modern slang can be frustrating for baby boomers who don’t understand it. Words like “lit,” “yeet,” or “sus” may leave them feeling confused or excluded from the conversation.
This language gap can make them feel distanced from younger generations.
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Talking About Cancel Culture
Many baby boomers don’t fully understand or agree with the concept of cancel culture. The idea of “canceling” someone for past mistakes feels extreme and unfair to them.
They often believe in forgiveness and learning from mistakes rather than immediate public shaming.
Critiquing Their Parenting Style
Boomers raised their children with the values and knowledge they had at the time, and they take pride in their parenting. Critiquing or questioning their methods—especially with today’s modern parenting trends—can feel like a direct attack on their choices.
They may see these critiques as judgmental and ungrateful.
Ignoring Basic Manners
For baby boomers, good manners and respect are non-negotiable. Not saying “please” or “thank you,” failing to make eye contact, or talking over others can be seen as rude and disrespectful.
They value politeness and proper etiquette, so a lack of it can be particularly upsetting.
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Disregarding Tradition
Boomers often place importance on traditions, whether it’s how holidays are celebrated or following family customs. Disregarding or dismissing these traditions as outdated can feel disrespectful to their sense of family and culture.
They often see tradition as a way to preserve important values.
Criticizing Their Love of Paper
Many baby boomers prefer physical copies of things like books, bills, and important documents. Jokingly calling them out for not going digital or preferring paper can feel like you’re mocking their habits.
For them, paper represents reliability, and digital versions just don’t hold the same value.
Suggesting They Move into Assisted Living
Even if well-meaning, suggesting that a baby boomer moves into assisted living or downsizes their home can feel like an insult. They often value their independence and may not appreciate being told they need help.
Many boomers want to live life on their terms without feeling like they’re being “managed.”
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Taking Social Media Too Seriously
Boomers may not understand why so many people put their lives on display on social media platforms. To them, sharing every detail online seems unnecessary or even self-indulgent.
Their more private nature makes it hard to relate to oversharing on social media.
Not Picking Up the Phone
Boomers still value direct, verbal communication, and not picking up the phone when they call can be frustrating. They may not understand why texts or DMs are favored over a simple phone conversation.
For them, phone calls feel more personal and meaningful.
Talking About Minimalism and Decluttering
While minimalism is a popular trend today, many baby boomers have spent years collecting cherished items. Suggesting they declutter or downsize their possessions can feel like a rejection of their sentimental value.
They’ve built lives around these items, and the idea of letting go isn’t always welcome.
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Being Disrespectful to Authority
Boomers grew up in an era where respect for authority figures—teachers, bosses, or elders—was paramount. Witnessing disrespect toward authority can be particularly upsetting to them.
They believe in maintaining decorum and respecting people in positions of responsibility.
Criticizing Their Political Views
Baby boomers often have strong political beliefs shaped by decades of experience and life events. Criticizing their views or engaging in political debates can quickly lead to frustration, especially if there’s a generational divide.
They may feel that their opinions are being dismissed or attacked.
Assuming They’re Out of Touch with Technology
Although many boomers have adapted to modern technology, assuming they’re tech-illiterate can feel insulting. They’ve worked hard to learn new skills, and being patronized about technology can be demeaning.
Acknowledging their adaptability rather than focusing on stereotypes fosters better understanding.
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