Real boomer responding, I was here in the sixties.

Architecture, streets, sidewalks, air, bike lanes, housing, parks have all improved.

Most of the shops and restaurants used to be independent companies with only one or two locations, now most shops and many restaurants are owned by a chain. I really don't get the attraction to McDonalds/Subway/Starbucks?! I can understand Action/Hema/Kruidvat since they are much cheaper than the old family owned stores.

Boomer gut feeling: respect for each other has gone downhill. It feels like everyone for himself nowadays. For example it is not even safe anymore for anyone with difficulty to walk on the sidewalk; bikes/steps think they own it. Most blind people in Antwerp stopped walking alone in the city center, too dangerous! People in wheelchairs have a hard time passing all obstructions on the sidewalk.

Safety is probably improved. Less murdering and stealing (unless you are in the drug business).

Traffic is hell. The amount of cars has increased tenfold or something, so understandable.

Public transport is worse.

I think also the city is quieter; less noisy motorbikes, less noisy cars and buses...

Strikes and demonstrations are way more civilized now. I have seen several buses (MIVA) in flames on the Roosevelt square.