Survey: Financial Security Tops List of Health Concerns for Seniors
A recent poll indicates that concerns about health-related costs are prevalent among older Americans from diverse backgrounds.
The University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging revealed that five of the top six health-related concerns revolved around healthcare expenses. Additionally, the sixth issue, financial scams and fraud, also pertained to monetary matters.
Dr. John Ayanian, the director of the University of Michigan Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, emphasized the significance of healthcare costs in the lives of older adults. The poll, supported by AARP and Michigan Medicine, found that 56% of individuals over 50 are worried about medical care costs for older adults.
Other prominent concerns included costs related to assisted living, prescription medicines, scams and fraud, health insurance or Medicare, and dental care. These concerns remained consistent across various demographic groups.
In addition to financial worries, the poll highlighted varying concerns among different demographic groups. For example, women showed more concern about access to quality home care, assisted living, and nursing home care compared to men. Black older adults were more likely to express concern about racial or ethnic discrimination, age-based discrimination, and unequal access to health and mental healthcare.
The survey underscores the pressing need to address healthcare affordability and access issues faced by older adults and their families. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding the diverse perspectives on health-related topics among older populations.
Conducted online and via phone, the poll surveyed 3,379 adults aged 50 and older in February and March 2024.
