AARP survey reveals Delaware residents’ concerns
AARP Delaware recently released new research that examines how Delawareans age 45 and older feel about issues such as healthcare, 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 percent say they are currently providing unpaid caregiving to a relative or friend, and 42 percent have provided unpaid care in the past. Eighty-five percent support a tax credit to family caregivers who incur expenses for the care of a family member.
Among respondents, 85 percent say they would like to live in their own home and community as they age. Thirty-six percent say it is very important, yet 29 percent say that affordable housing options within walking distance to a downtown or village center are poor. Thirty percent say if they were no longer able to drive, it would be very difficult to continue living in their current neighborhood. Many respondents say 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 they are extremely concerned about having their identity stolen, and almost 45 percent 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 AARP has conducted. AARP Delaware uses findings from Vital Voices when meeting with legislators and delivering public testimony and 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.
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