AARP Explores “The Road Ahead”

Delaware’s aging population is growing at a striking rate. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that the Delaware senior population will grow by 130,000 people between 2000 and 2030, an increase of over 133 percent. Delaware will benefit from the wisdom, volunteerism, and civic engagement of an older generation. However, Delaware must also react to the needs and preferences of individuals who desire to remain independent and productive as they age.

In support of making Delaware more livable for this aging population, AARP Delaware launched The Road Ahead: Aging in Place in Delaware, a survey of Delawareans on their views on housing, transportation and long-term care within their communities.

The results of the study were compelling and consistent with similar research nationwide. Nearly nine out of ten believe it is important to remain in their own community as they age. Consistent with their desire to remain in their communities, nearly nine out of ten people answered that they want to remain in their current residence as long as possible. Few are confident that they would be able to pay for necessary long-term care services in their own homes.

Almost one in five claim they need to make major repairs, modifications or changes to their homes to stay in them as they age. The majority drive a car as a primary way to access shopping, visit their doctors, etc. Nearly half claimed they would take public transportation instead if it were available. A large majority of respondents also expressed importance of having home-based care delivered by family, friends and personal car aides. Only three percent responded that they would prefer to receive care in a nursing home.

Most agree that the concept of aging in one’s own home and community is desirable, but few are aware of what long-term care costs or how to feasibly pay for the care. Many claim they would pay for the care through government programs, insurance, or savings.

The study is invaluable in helping to make a case for better services to allow us all to age in place.

View an executive summary of the report at www.aarp.org/de, or view the full survey and questions at www.aarp.org/research.