Booming the State's Economy

Debunking the myth that older people drain resources, AARP Vermont is promoting public awareness of a study that shows Vermonters 50-plus are a boon to the state’s economy.

Residents 50 and older make up 41 percent of the state population, yet account for 47 percent (or $14.3 billion) of its economic output, according to the 2017 Longevity Economy report, prepared by Oxford Economics for AARP. Moreover, residents 50-plus account for 62 percent of consumer spending in the state.

“Clearly, people over 50 make a substantial and positive contribution to our economy—far more than most people realize,” said Marie Houghton, AARP Vermont’s new state president. “Policymakers need to recognize the value of older people’s contributions.”

For details, go to aarp.org/2017longevityecon and click on VT.