AARP Member Opinions on Supportive Services in Georgia

In response to the recent economic downturn, the State of Georgia is looking at cuts to programs and services as a way to balance the state budget. At the same time, "the sandwich generation," those who are caring for children and parents, are increasingly reliant on supportive services while they try to stabilize their own financial security. Findings from this survey show the importance AARP members in Georgia place on having services and policies that support family caregivers and the older adults who rely on them.

• 41% have been a caregiver to a family member or friend in the last 12 months, and 72% are at least somewhat concerned they might need to provide long-term care or assistance to a family member in the next five years.
• 8 in 10 say it is either extremely or very important that Georgia maintains funding for caregiver respite programs and adult day services.
• Two-thirds disagree with the funding cuts the State of Georgia made to health and wellness programs, such as those for chronic disease management and prevention, medication management, healthy aging, and nutrition.

This telephone survey of 803 randomly selected AARP members in Georgia ages 50 to 60 was conducted in November 2008. For more information, contact Katherine Bridges at 202-434-6329. (10 pages)