2010 AARP Illinois Statewide Survey of Members

AARP Illinois commissioned a survey to explore member opinion about state legislative priorities, state budget and tax issues, good governance, economic security, work and retirement, livable community and transportation issues, and volunteerism.

Key findings included:

• Almost six in ten of Illinois members stated that AARP Illinois’ top priority should be reduction of health care insurance premiums and co-payments.
• Nearly half of members indicate that ensuring access to affordable prescription drugs should be AARP Illinois’ top priority.
• Three-quarters of respondents strongly agree that major changes are needed in campaign finance laws to decrease the influence state campaign contributors have on the political process.
• Sixty-three percent of members strongly support raising  taxes if it prevents cuts to home and community-based health and long-term care services. 
• In the last 12 months, over 50 percent of members stated that they found it more difficult to pay for essential items like food, and medicine and utilities. 
• Over half (55%) of working members are likely to put off retirement and work as long as possible. 
• Most members indicate that it is extremely or very important to them to remain in their communities as they grow older.

Results are based on 661 responses to a survey conducted by Questar, Inc. March through May 2010 from AARP members in Illinois aged 50 and over.  For more information about this research, please contact Aisha Bonner at 202-434-3531.