New Survey: Oklahomans Worried about Health and Economic Issues

More than half of adults 50+ say that health care issues are the top problem or challenge facing mid-life and older adults, according to a new survey released today by AARP Oklahoma.

Additionally, one fourth of respondents said economic issues, including unemployment and having enough money to retire, are challenges for them.

The survey, titled “Voices of 50+ Oklahoma: Dreams and Challenges”, measures issues of importance, financial concerns, long-term care concerns and state budget concerns as well as dreams for the 50+ population in Oklahoma.

Findings are based on a state sample of 400 50+ Oklahomans – both AARP members and non-AARP members – conducted Jan. 2-31.

“AARP is committed to help improve the lives of the 50+ population” said AARP Oklahoma Volunteer State President Marjorie Lyons. “This survey demonstrates the association’s desire to listen to our needs, interests and concerns.”

Key issues of importance to the 50+ population today:

• 95% of those surveyed said staying healthy is extremely important
  
• 89% of those surveyed say receiving Medicare and Social Security when needed is extremely important
  
• 87% of those surveyed said having adequate health insurance is extremely important
  

Conversely, only 29% of those surveyed said they feel like they have everything they need when it comes to receiving Social Security and Medicare and only 34% say they have everything they need to stay healthy.

“I think it’s very clear that older Oklahomans have a lot of worries concerning the future of Social Security and Medicare,” Lyons said. “It’s a strong signal to our lawmakers that these are issues that the 50+ population expects them to address.”