Here’s an interesting statistic: A recent study confirms that, today, roughly 15% of American Baby Boomers have tattoos and body art.
While I must admit that I have considered making changes to my physical appearance (like transplanting the hairs on my nose and ears to the top of my head) the thought of adding body art has never occurred to me.
Mainly because bringing more attention to my body in its current condition just doesn’t seem wise. Plus, there’s this sneaky suspicion that I won’t get my money’s worth out of a tattoo at this late stage of life.
Seniors grew up when tattoos were socially taboo. The only person I ever saw with a tattoo when growing up was my older brother Jack who got a black panther on his forearm while in the Army.
Naturally, my buddies and I thought it was pretty cool, but it did present a hindrance to Jack’s professional career.
Tattoos have been going through a resurgence in popularity for the last 20 years. Nearly half (47%) of millennials, people born between 1982 and 2004, claim to have one.
So, what motivates one to get a tattoo as a senior? Perhaps it’s the fact that there is simply no reason not to. If you have always desired one, why not now?
Some seniors claim that their tattoo represents a secret persona. Like, they’ve always been sort of a pussy cat, so get a tattoo of a flaming dragon. Some use a tattoo as an expression of a rebellious spirit, or a personal value, or a life philosophy.
Personally, if I decide to get a tattoo it will be for a more practical reason. For example, I would hide my social security number on my ankle and cover my arms with birthdate, emergency contact number, and various internet passwords.
If I had a grocery store Rewards Card tattoo, I could simply sweep my elbow over the check stand scanner and never have to worry about forgetting my card again.
Then, there is the ultimate practical reason for getting tatted at our age: You can’t see the wrinkles with all the tattoos.
