AARP Wisconsin Legislative Issues Survey

This survey explores the attitudes and opinions of 1,285 of AARP's 750,000 Wisconsin members on several consumer and legislative issues, and gauges the legislative priorities they think AARP should pursue in their state.

Of the members responding to the mail survey...

• 83 percent oppose cuts to health and long-term care services for children, older persons, and people with disabilities
• 69 percent oppose cuts to education including K-12 and higher education
• 65 percent oppose cuts to municipalities and counties that pay for fire and police protection, senior centers, and parks and recreation

Personal mobility and aging in place were also a concern. When they need to get somewhere, 91 percent of those surveyed say they drive. If they were unable to drive themselves...

• 89 percent would ride with family or friends
• 60 percent would walk
• 38 percent would use a senior or community van
• 36 percent would take a taxi
• 34 percent would rely on public transportation

However, 56 percent agreed with the statement: "If I were no longer able to drive, it would be difficult for me to continue to live in my current neighborhood."

The survey was conducted during October and November 2004, and the report prepared by Susan Silberman, Ph.D. of AARP Knowledge Management who may be contacted at 202-434-6339.