Changing a lightbulb used to be a simple task—until now. A startling new poll has revealed that nearly one in four Gen Zers (ages 18-27) don’t know how to replace a ceiling lamp bulb, often citing concerns that climbing a ladder is “too dangerous” or that the bulb might be “too hot.”
This growing lack of basic practical skills extends far beyond lighting fixtures. A significant percentage of young adults admit they can’t add air to a car tire, install windshield wiper blades, or even identify a flathead screwdriver. Nearly 30% couldn’t recognize a wrench, and one in ten said they would call a professional just to hang a picture on a wall.
According to experts, the decline in hands-on skills among younger generations is largely due to automation and digital convenience. “So much of their lives are automated and outsourced,” says psychologist Yamalis Diaz. “It makes complete sense that Gen Z simply doesn’t know how to do non-tech or independent tasks.”
Instead of learning to tackle household chores themselves, Gen Zers are spending over $1,500 per year hiring professionals to handle minor fixes—triple the amount spent by Gen Xers and five times more than boomers.
Experts warn that if this trend continues, the next generation could be even less self-sufficient. To combat this, parents are encouraged to teach kids hands-on skills early through chores, DIY projects, and supervised household maintenance—before hiring help becomes their default solution.
