New AARP survey shows measurable gap between health and financial security of older Marylanders

AARP MarylandMar 1 2011

A new AARP survey of Marylanders age 50 and older shows a measurable gap between the importance they place on health and financial security and older Marylanders' confidence in their ability to meet these needs.

"This survey tells us that too many older Marylanders are uncertain they can attain, or maintain, good health and a secure retirement," said AARP Maryland senior state director Rawle Andrews Jr. "It spotlights some fundamental issues of vital importance to older Marylanders, and – as we all grow older – all Marylanders."

More than nine in ten older Marylanders say staying healthy, staying mentally sharp, and having adequate health insurance are extremely or very important to them.  Yet only about four in ten say they have everything they need relative to these concerns.

The Maryland results came from a nationwide AARP survey conducted to gather information on the needs, interests, and concerns of Americans 50+, as part of the Association's continuous communications with its members and all older Americans. We asked about their dreams as they think about what is next in life, as well as the challenges they face.

Other survey findings include:

• More than four in ten adults 50+ in Maryland say that health care issues are the top problem or challenge facing mid-life and older adults in the state. Over a third cite economic issues as the biggest concern of older adults in Maryland.
• Staying in their own homes as they age is important to Marylanders 50+. Nearly all say it is important to have long-term care services that allow people to remain in their own homes.
• Nearly nine in ten surveyed support strengthening the enforcement of nursing home standards. Almost as many support allowing funds intended for nursing homes to be used for home- and community-based long-term care services.
• About four in ten 50+ adults in the state have some difficulty paying their monthly electric bills – 14 percent have serious difficulty. Marylanders do not believe that elected officials are doing enough to keep electricity rates affordable.
• Marylanders 50+ say vacation and travel and hobbies are what they personally dream about doing next in their lives.

"AARP has a strong commitment to help older Marylanders live their lives to the fullest," Andrews said. "This survey will inform and guide our efforts in advocacy, outreach, and service, and reinforces the critical nature of the work that we all can and should be doing to help enhance the quality of life for Marylanders as we age."

More than 400 Marylanders were surveyed by telephone in January. The data has a sampling error of five percent. Click here for the complete survey report.