AARP Delaware Releases Vital Voices Survey Highlighting the Needs and Concerns of Delawareans age 45 and Older

AARP Delaware released new research today that examines how Delawareans age 45 and older feel about issues such as health care, financial security, caregiving, livable communities and more. This is part of an ongoing effort by AARP in all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands to better understand the needs and attitudes of older Americans and assist in the development of programs, policies and resources to support them.

In Delaware, AARP surveyed 702 people and found that, among residents 45-plus:

· 19% say they are currently provided unpaid caregiving to a relative or friend, and 42% have provided unpaid care in the past. 85% support a tax credit to family caregivers who incur expenses for the care of a family member.

· 85% say that they in their own home and community as they age. 36% say it is very important. Yet, 29% say that affordable housing option within walking distance to a downtown or village center is poor. 30% say that if they were no longer able to drive, it would be very difficult to continue living in their current neighborhood. Many respondents say that better sidewalks and lighting, safer intersections, more crosswalks, and longer crosswalk times would make them more likely to walk in their communities.

· Half of all respondents say that they are extremely concerned about having their identity stolen. 44% are extremely concerned about hackers getting access to their personal information.

“AARP’s new research gives Delawareans age 45 and older a much-needed voice at a moment when they may not feel heard,” said Wendell Alfred, AARP Delaware State President. “We will use the findings to inform our advocacy efforts and better serve our residents. This type of data gives older Delawareans the power to advocate for policies that give Delawareans more choices as they age.”

This is the second round of Vital Voices research that AARP has conducted. AARP Delaware uses findings from Vital Voices when meeting with legislators and delivering public testimony. AARP Delaware will use these findings to advocate for legislation creating a statewide caregiver tax credit. The survey also demonstrates a strong need to continue to educate Delawareans about fraud and scams. Also, AARP Delaware will use the findings to advocate for more livable communities in terms of housing, transportation and healthy lifestyles.

This new data will once again be provided to local and state leaders, who will be able to use the data to:

· Predict the need for a specific program or interest in a particular issue.

· Enhance program and product innovation and development.

· Track issues and attitudes over time to assess shifts in public opinion.

· Take action on critical advocacy issues.

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