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AARP Maryland Member Opinion Survey

Research Report

Erica L. Dinger, J.D., AARP Knowledge Management

January 2003


AARP MEMBER OPINION RESEARCH: This mail survey of 988 AARP members in Maryland explores their concerns, legislative priorities, preferences for hearing from AARP, and volunteer experiences. Among its findings:

  • The safety of pension benefits and retirement savings is an extreme concern for 80 percent of those surveyed while 75 percent are extremely concerned about access to affordable prescription drugs
  • Affordable prescription drugs and the availability, cost, and quality of health care are the top two legislative priorities.
  • Members would most likely use written information sent by AARP, and they want to hear from AARP by mail.
  • In the last year, 37 percent of members have volunteered; half have volunteered for a religious organization.
  • Members' volunteer activities include fund-raising (42%) and organizing events (34%), and helping people (59%) and a commitment to a cause or belief (54%) are the reasons they give for volunteering.

The mail survey took place from October through December 2002. The report was prepared by Erica Dinger who may be contacted at 202/434-6176 for further information. (48 pages)