full research findings june 2014. survey overview
TRANSCRIPT
Full Research FindingsJune 2014
SURVEY OVERVIEW
Methodology• Penn Schoen Berland completed 3,279 telephone
interviews between April 3, 2014 and May 6, 2014• This report includes the following audiences:
Audience Definition Sample Size
Margin of Error
General Population SamplesNational 60+ 2014 US adults 60 and older from 2014 study 1,000 +/- 3.1%National 60+ 2013 US adults 60 and older from 2013 study 1,007 +/- 3.1%National 60+ 2012 US adults 60 and older from 2012 study 1,004 +/- 3.09%National 18-59 2014 US adults 18-59 from 2014 study 1,027 +/- 3.06%
National 18-59 2013 US adults 18-59 from 2013 study 993 +/- 3.11%
Oversampled Audiences
Low-Income Seniors 2014
US adults 60 and older with household income of <$15,000 from 2014 study
252 +/- 6.17%
Low-Income Seniors 2013
US adults 60 and older with household income of <$15,000 from 2013 study
378 +/- 5.04%
Socially-Isolated Seniors
US adults 60 and older living alone and expressing feelings of loneliness from 2014 study
250 +/- 6.2%
Dallas Seniors US adults 60 and older living in Dallas from 2014 study
250 +/- 6.2%
Newark, N.J. Seniors
US adults 60 and older living in Newark, N.J. from 2014 study
250 +/- 6.2%
Cleveland Seniors US adults 60 and older living in Cleveland from 2014 study
250 +/- 6.2%
3Note: 2014 wave was conducted between April 3, 2014 and May 6, 2014 Note: 2013 wave was conducted between April 4, 2013 and May 3, 2013Note: 2012 wave was conducted between May 10, 2012 and June 6, 2012
Methodology
Please note:• Data from general population samples and regional
oversampled audiences are weighted to U.S. Census Bureau data. Data from the oversampled audience of “Low-Income Seniors” are weighted to 2013 survey demographics data.
• The following demographics are weighted:– Age– Gender– Marital status– Race
• Sample sizes under N=75 are not shown, as these sample sizes are too small to be statistically reliable.
• All numbers in this report are percentages unless otherwise noted.
• Due to rounding, some of the total percentages do not add up to 100.
4
DETAILED FINDINGS
GENERAL OUTLOOK
For the first time in the past three years, more seniors say their life in the past year has been better than say it has been worse
7
*Not showing “don’t know”Q 6 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59), In general, would you say the past year of your life has been…? Among All.Q4 (For 2013 60+, 2013 18-59). In general, would you say the past year of your life has been…? Among All.Q5 (For 2012 60+). In general, would you say the past year of your life has been…? Among All.
In general, would you say the past year of your life has been…
The best /Better than
normal
The worst / Worse than
normal
Normal
• Since 2012, fewer seniors say the past year of their life has been worse than normal
60+ 2014 60+ 2013 60+ 2012 18-59 2014
18-59 2013
22% 24%34%
24% 23%
53% 57% 42%48% 52%
24% 19% 23% 28% 26%
• Adults 18-59 express an even greater deal of optimism about the next five to 10 years compared to last year
Optimism has rebounded since 2013, as more seniors expect their life to get better in the next decade
8
*Not showing “don’t know”Q7 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your overall quality of life to get …? Among All. Q5 (For 2013 60+, 2013 18-59). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your overall quality of life to get …? Among All. Q6 (For 2012 60+). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your overall quality of life (including your financial well-being, mental and physical health, recreation and leisure time, and family situation) to get …? Among All.
When thinking about the next five to 10 years, do you expect your overall quality of life to get…
Much / Somewhat better
Much /Somewhat worse
Stay about
the same
60+ 2014 60+ 2013 60+ 2012 18-59 2014
18-59 2013
21% 24% 22%9% 12%
49%51%
45%
23%25%
28% 21%30%
67% 62%
9
• Adults 18-59 are more likely to say their family and a positive attitude are the key to a positive outlook on life than seniors nationally
What is the most important key to keeping a positive outlook on life? (Ranked by Seniors 60+)
Seniors are most likely to say faith or spirituality is the key to a positive outlook on life
*Not showing “don’t know”Q8 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). What is the most important key to keeping a positive outlook on life?
25%
15%14%
9% 9%
6% 6%5%
2%1% 1%
6%
1%
21%
19%
17%
8%
6%
4%3%
8%
1%2%
4%
8%
1%
60+ 2014
10
• A higher percentage of seniors than 18-59 year olds say they are very confident
How confident are you in your ability to maintain a high quality of life throughout your senior years?
Seniors are more optimistic about their ability to maintain a high quality of life than last year
*Not showing “don’t know” Q13 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). How confident are you in your ability to maintain a high quality of life throughout your senior years? Among All. Q9 (For 2013 60+, 2013 18-59). How confident are you in your ability to maintain a high quality of life throughout your senior years? Among All.
60+ 2014
60+ 2013
18-59 2014
49%
45%
49%
40%
41%
35%
7%
8%
10%
2%
4%
5%
Very confident
Not very confident
Somewhat confident
Not at all confident
86%
89%
84%
11
Q14 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). IF CONFIDENT: Why are you confident about your ability to maintain a high quality of life throughout your senior years? Please tell me your top two choices. Among All.
Seniors most attribute their confidence about maintaining a high quality life to support from family and friends
48%
32%30% 29% 28%
8%
1%
44%
25%
35%33% 32%
10%
1%
60+ 2014 18-59 2014
IF CONFIDENT: Why are you confident about your ability to maintain a high quality of life throughout your senior years? Please tell me
your top two choices. (Ranked by Seniors 60+)
• Adults 18-59 are more likely to attribute their confidence to their financial preparedness and their good health
Similar to last year, most seniors say their health over the past year has been normal
12
*Not showing “don’t know”Q9 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). With regard to your health, would you say the past year of your life has been…Among All.Q6 (For 2013 60+, 2013 18-59). With regard to your health, would you say the past year of your life has been…Among All.Q7 (For 2012 60+). With regard to your health, would you say the past year of your life has been…Among All.
With regard to your health, would you say the past year of your life has been…
The best /Better than
normal
The worst / Worse than
normal
Normal
60+ 2014 60+ 2013 60+ 2012 18-59 2014
18-59 2013
23% 22%34%
22% 18%
58% 60%45%
56% 60%
18% 17% 21% 22% 22%
• The 18-59 group expresses even greater optimism than last year
While most seniors expect their health to stay the same in the future, seniors are slightly more optimistic that their health will improve compared to last year
13
*Not showing “don’t know” Q10 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your health to get…? Among All. Q7 (For 2013 60+, 2013 18-59). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your health to get… ? Among All. Q8 (For 2012 60+). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your health to get …? Among All.
When thinking about the next five to 10 years, do you expect your health to get…
Much / Somewhat better
Much / Somewhat worse
Stay about
the same
60+ 2014 60+ 2013 60+ 2012 18-59 2014
18-59 2013
25% 23% 28%10% 12%
55% 60% 52%
51% 53%
17% 13% 17%
38% 34%
Most seniors expect their financial situation to remain the same in the next decade
14
*Not showing “don’t know” Q11 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59) When thinking about the next five to 10 years, do you expect your financial situation to get …?
When thinking about the next five to 10 years, do you expect your financial situation to get …
Much / Somewhat better
Much / Somewhat worse
Stay about
the same
• Adults 18-59 are much more optimistic than seniors, as most of them think their financial situation will improve in the next decade
20%9%
59%
27%
20%
63%
60+ 2014
18-59 2014
• Adults ages 18-59 have prepared just as much than in 2013
60+ 2014 60+ 2013
4300% 43%
3000% 33%
14% 12%
11% 10%
How much preparation have you done for your senior years?
Seniors say they have done about as much preparation for their senior years as in 2013
15
*Not showing “don’t know”Q12 (For 2014 60+). How much preparation have you done for your senior years? Among All.Q8 (For 2013 60+). How much preparation have you done for your senior years? Among All.
A great deal
Little
Some
None
60+ 2014
60+ 2013
16
Q15 (For 2014 60+). What, if any, of the following steps do you wish you had taken to plan and prepare for your senior years? Please tell me all that apply. Showing All.
Seniors wish they had saved more money, taken better care of their health, and made better investments in preparing for their senior years
None of the above
Don't know
Other
Planned to live a community that is better for aging
Planned to live in a home that is better for aging
Worked longer
Stayed closer with family
Kept legal documents more organized
Made better investments
Taken better care of my health
Saved more money
17%
1%
4%
10%
13%
15%
21%
22%
31%
36%
45%
60+ 2...
What, if any, of the following steps do you wish you had taken to plan and prepare for your senior years? Please tell me all that
apply.
17
*Not showing “don’t know”Q16 (For 2014 60+). What worries you most about your senior years? Among All.
Loss of autonomy and loss of memory are two of seniors’ biggest fears
16%
14%
9%8% 8%
7%
4% 4%3%
2% 2%1%
7%
15%60+ 2...
What worries you most about your senior years?
18
*Not showing “student” and “don’t know”Q17 (For 2014 60+). Which of the following best describes your current employment status? Among All.Q10 (For 2013 60+). Which of the following best describes your current employment status? Among All.
Slightly more seniors report that they are currently working than last year
Current Employment Status
Retire
d
Employ
ed fu
ll tim
e
Employ
ed p
art t
ime
Disabled
Homem
aker
Volun
teer
Other
Unem
ploy
ed
57%
18%10% 6% 4% 3% 2% 1%
63%
16%9% 5% 4% 1%
60+ 2014 60+ 2013
N/A 2%
19
*Not showing “don’t know”Q18 (For 2014 60+). IF EMPLOYED OR LOOKING FOR WORK: For which, if any, of the following reasons are you still working? Please tell me all that apply.Q11 (For 2013 60+). IF EMPLOYED OR LOOKING FOR WORK: For which, if any, of the following reasons are you still working? Please tell me all that apply.Q14 (For 2012 60+). IF EMPLOYED OR LOOKING FOR WORK: For which, if any, of the following reasons are you still working? Please tell me all that apply.
IF EMPLOYED OR LOOKING FOR WORK: Reasons for employment? (Ranked by 60+ 2014)
60+ 2014
(N= 309)
60+ 2013
(N=259)
60+ 2012
(N=329)
I want to stay active and productive 62% 69% 76%
I enjoy it 60% 66% 70%
I need the income 50% 62% 69%
It gives me a sense of purpose 48% 59% 67%
I want to stay involved with other people 48% 53% 60%I want to make a difference or help others in my community 41% 45% 53%
I need the benefits 25% 38% 40%
Because I’m not eligible for Medicare yet 16% 23% N/A
Other 7% 6% 4%
Seniors cite wanting to stay active, enjoying work and financial needs as the top reasons for having a job
• Needing the income is not cited as often as it was in past years
20
*Not showing “don’t know”Q19 (For 2014 60+). What do you enjoy about your work? Please tell me al that apply. Showing All.
Seniors who say they continue to work for enjoyment like feeling challenged, having a sense of purpose, and interacting with clients
IF ENJOYABLE: What do you enjoy about your work? Please tell me all that apply.
73% 72% 71%67%
56% 56%51%
11%
60+ 2014
ECONOMIC SECURITY
• Adults 18-59 also have an easier time paying monthly bills than last year
Seniors say they have an easier time paying monthly bills than in previous years
22
*Not showing “don’t know”Q20 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). In general, based on your current income and savings, how easy or difficult is it for you to pay your monthly living expenses? Is it... Among All. Q14 (For 2013 60+, 2013 18-59). In general, based on your current income and savings, how easy or difficult is it for you to pay your monthly living expenses? Is it... Among All. Q15 (For 2012 60+). In general, based on your current income and savings, how easy or difficult is it for you to pay your monthly living expenses? Is it... Among All.
In general, based on your current income and savings, how easy or difficult is it for you to pay your monthly living expenses?
Very / Somewhat easy
Very / Somewh
at difficult
Neither easy nor difficult
60+ 2014 60+ 2013 60+ 2012 18-59 2014
18-59 2013
17% 19% 22% 25% 26%11% 14% 13%
19% 21%
69% 66% 64% 56% 52%
Although many seniors continue to express concern about having sufficient savings to last for the rest of their life, there is slightly less concern than last
year
23
*Not showing “don’t know” Q21mA (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). How concerned are you that your savings and income will be sufficient to last for the rest of your life? Are you...? Among All.Q15mA(For 2013 60+). How concerned are you about being able to stay in your current home for as long as you’d like? Are you...? Among All.
How concerned are you that your savings and income will be sufficient to last for the rest of your life? Are you...?
Not at all concerne
d
Very concerne
d
Neutral
Not very concerne
d
Somewhat
concerned
60+ 2014 60+ 2013 18-59 2014
23% 18% 17%
13% 15% 11%
13% 12% 18%
30% 31% 30%
19% 22% 24%
Seniors are as concerned as last year with being able to remain in their home for as long as they would like
24
*Not showing “don’t know” .Q21mA(For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). How concerned are you about being able to stay in your current home for as long as you’d like? Are you...? Among All.Q16mA(For 2013 60+). How concerned are you about being able to stay in your current home for as long as you’d like? Are you...? Among All.
How concerned are you about being able to stay in your current home for as long as you’d like? Are you...?
Not at all concerne
d
Very concerne
d
Neutral
Not very concerne
d
Somewhat
concerned
60+ 2014 60+ 2013 18-59 2014
41% 36% 39%
17% 18% 19%
12% 13% 15%
16% 19% 13%
13% 12% 13%
About 4 in 10 seniors are concerned about being able to afford a licensed caregiver or a nursing home if needed
25
*Not showing “don’t know” Q23mA (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). How concerned are you that you could afford a licensed caregiver in your home or assisted living if needed? Are you...? Among All.Q24mA(For 2014 60+). How concerned are you that you could afford a nursing home if needed ? Are you...? Among All.
How concerned are you that you could afford a licensed
caregiver in your home or assisted living if needed ? Are
you...?
Not at all concerne
d
Very concerne
d
Neutral
How concerned are you that you could afford a nursing home if
needed ? Are you...?
Not very concerne
d
Somewhat
concerned
60+ 2014 18-59 2014
30% 27%
13% 12%
15% 23%
24% 23%
17% 14%
60+ 2014
31%
15%
13%
22%
17%
Seniors are less concerned about needing financial support from family and being able to continue working as long as they would like than younger adults
18-59
26
*Not showing “don’t know” Q25mA (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). How concerned are you about needing financial support from family members as you age? Are you...? Among All.Q26mA(For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). How concerned are you about being able to continue working as long as you would like? Are you...? Among All.
How concerned are you about needing financial support from family members as you age?
Are you...?
How concerned are you about being able to continue working as long as you would like? Are
you...?
60+ 2014 18-59 2014
49%35%
18%
21%
11%19%
10% 17%
9% 8%
60+ 2014 18-59 2014
55%
34%
11%
17%
12%
16%
10%
17%
7% 15%
Not at all concerne
d
Very concerne
d
Neutral
Not very concerne
d
Somewhat
concerned
More than half of seniors are not concerned about needing help from community programs
27
*Not showing “don’t know” Q26amA (For 2014 60+). How concerned are you about needing help from community programs to assist with meals, transportation, and/or home care? Are you...? Among All.
How concerned are you about needing help from community programs to assist with meals, transportation, and/or home care? Are
you...?
Not at all concerne
d
Very concerne
d
Neutral
Not very concerne
d
Somewhat
concerned
60+ 2014
40%
18%
15%
15%
11%
Medicare is still the most common source for medical insurance
28
Q27 (For 2014 60+). Through what organizations, if any, do you access medical insurance benefits? Please tell me all that apply. Among All .Q18 (For 2013 60+). Through what organizations, if any, do you access medical insurance benefits? Please tell me all that apply. Among All .Q19 (For 2012 60+). Through what organizations, if any, do you access medical insurance benefits? Please tell me all that apply. Among All .
Through what organizations, if any, do you access medical insurance benefits?
(Ranked by 60+ 2014)
Don't know
Do not have health insurance
Veterans Administration or Tricare
Medicaid
Your current or former employer
Private health insurance plan you purchased for your own individual coverage; not provided by the government or an employer
Medicare
2%
4%
13%
13%
37%
35%
66%
0%
3%
12%
8%
38%
36%
65%
1%
1%
11%
12%
33%
39%
65%
60+ 201460+ 2013
Medicare is prominent among seniors over 65, but younger seniors receive medical insurance through private or employer insurance
29
Q27 (For 2014 60+). Through what organizations, if any, do you access medical insurance benefits? Please tell me all that apply. Among All .
Through what organizations, if any, do you access medical insurance benefits?
Don't know
Do not have health insurance
Veterans Administration or Tricare
Medicaid
Your current or former employer
Private health insurance plan you purchased for your own individual coverage; not provided by the government or an employer
Medicare
4%
3%
9%
8%
45%
34%
21%
1%
0%
14%
14%
29%
37%
84%
0%
0%
9%
14%
26%
48%
88%
75+
65-74
60-64
• However, thirty-nine percent of seniors nationally say they wouldn't apply for government assistance if they were told they qualify
A similar number of seniors as last year say they would apply for government assistance if they were told they qualified
30
Q28(For 2014 60+). If you were told that you qualify for government assistance to help meet your needs, would you consider applying for it? Among All.Q21 (For 2013 60+). If you were told that you qualify for government assistance to help meet your needs, would you consider applying for it? Among All.
If you were told that you qualify for government assistance to help meet your needs, would you
consider applying for it?
Yes No Don't know
56%
39%
5%
55%
39%
6%
60+ 2014
60+ 2013
31
Q29 (For 2014 60+). Beyond the health coverage currently provided by Medicare, which of the following services would you most want the government to invest in to help meet your needs as you age? Please tell me your top two choices.
Beyond health insurance, seniors would also like government help with long-term care insurance
Beyond the health coverage currently provided by Medicare, which of the following services would you most want the government to
invest in to help meet your needs as you age?
None of the above
Don't know
Other
Gym or fitness membership
Assistance with food or meals
Transportation assistance
Assistance caring for your home
Coverage for hearing aids
Vision insurance
Assistance modifying your home so you can live in it longer
Dental insurance
Long-term care insurance, which covers home care, assisted living, adult daycare, etc.
19%
2%
3%
4%
8%
9%
10%
10%
14%
15%
22%
39%
60+ 2...
32
Q30 (For 2014 60+). Do you intend to continue living in your current home for the rest of your life?Q31 (For 2014 60+). For which of the following reasons do you plan to continue living in your current home for the rest of your life? Please tell me all that apply.
Most seniors intend to live in their current home for the rest of their lives, mostly because their house meets their needs and they want to maintain
independence
Do you intend to continue living in your current home for
the rest of your life?
77%
17%
5%Yes NoDon't know
IF YES: for which of the following reasons do you plan
to continue living in your current home for the rest of
your life? (N=772)
Don't know
Other
I have a lot of memories in my home
I’ve invested financially in my home
I want to stay close to friends or family
My home is located in a good neighborhood
I want to be able to live independently
My home meets all my needs
1%
6%
47%
62%
62%
71%
75%
78%
60+ 2...
33
Q32 (For 2014 60+). IF INTEND TO AGE IN PLACE: Do you plan to make any modifications to your home to help you as you age?Q33(For 2014 60+). IF DO NOT PLAN OT MAKE MODIFICATIONS: Why don’t you plan to make any modifications to your home? Please tell me all that apply.
And most seniors do not plan to make any modifications to their home because they feel it is already suited to their needs
IF INTEND TO AGE IN PLACE: Do you plan to make any
modifications to your home to help you as you age?
(N=772)
28%
68%
4%Yes NoDon't know
IF DO NOT PLAN TO MAKE MODIFICATIONS: Why don’t you plan to make any modifications
to your home?(N=528)
Don't know
Other
I’ve never thought about it before
It’s too expensive
My home is already suited to my needs as I age
1%
10%
16%
17%
72%
60+ 2...
34
Q34 (For 2014 60+). IF INTEND TO AGE IN PLACE: Have you spoken with your family about the need to make modifications to your home to help you as you age?
Most seniors have not talked to their family about the need to make modifications to their homes as they age
IF INTEND TO AGE IN PLACE: Have you spoken with your family about the need to make modifications to your home to help you
as you age?(N=772)
20%
80%
1% Yes
No
Don't know
CAREGIVERS, LIVING ALONE AND ISOLATION
36
Q35 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). Who do/will you rely on the most for support in your senior years?Q77 (For 2013 60+, 2013 18-59). Who do/will you rely on the most for support in your senior years?
While most seniors rely on their family for support, younger adults are more likely to say they will rely only on themselves during their senior years
Who do/will you rely on the most for support in your senior years?
61%
27%
4% 3% 1% 1% 2%
69%
19%
3% 5%1% 1% 2%
46%
40%
8%3% 1% 1% 2%
59%
31%
3% 3% 2% 1% 2%
60+ 2014
60+ 2013
18-59 2014
• Seniors are less likely to rely on their family and more likely to rely on themselves than last year
37
Q36 (For 2014 60+). Have you made a plan with friends or family members who could help you in an emergency if something were to happen to you?
Most seniors say they have made arrangements with friends or family if something were to happen to them
Have you made a plan with friends or family members who could help you in an emergency if something were to happen to
you?
71%
28%
1%60+ 2014
Yes No Don't know
38
86%
18% 14% 8% 7% 1% 1% 1% 1%10%
60+ 2...
Most seniors who have a caregiver feel grateful towards them
• Nearly a quarter of seniors say they have a family member or paid caregiver helping them on a regular basis
Q37 (For 2014 60+). Do you currently have a family member, paid caregiver, or someone else who helps you on a regular basis?Q38 (For 2014 60+). IF YES: How do you feel towards the person assisting you?
Do you currently have a family member, paid caregiver, or someone else who helps you on a regular basis?
IF YES: How do you feel towards the person assisting you?
(N=288)
No
Yes, paid caregiver
71%
3%
3%
23%
39
Q39 (For 2014 60+). Would you prefer to live alone, or with family members for the remainder of your senior years?Q40 (For 2014 60+). IF LIFE ALONE: Do you expect to live alone for the rest of your life?
Half of seniors would prefer to live alone for their remaining years
Would you prefer to live alone, or with family
members for the remainder of your senior years?
81%
14%
6%
60+ 2014
YesNoDon't know
IF LIVE ALONE: Do you expect to live alone for the
rest of your life?(N=289)
60+ 2014
3%
41%
53%
Alone
With family members
Neither
Don't know
4%
60+ 20143%11%
12%
23%
49%
Very easy Somewhat easy Neither easy or difficult Somewhat difficult Very difficult
40
*Not showing “don’t know”Q41 (For 2014 60+). IF LIVE ALONE: How easy or difficult is it to live alone?
Most seniors living alone say it is easy for them to do so
IF LIVE ALONE: How easy or difficult is it to live alone? (N=289)
41
Q42 (For 2014 60+). IF LIVE ALONE: What do you miss most about living with other people? Q43 (For 2014 60+). IF LIVE ALONE: What is your biggest concern or fear about living alone?
Seniors who live alone miss having someone to talk to but do not have any fears of living alone
14%
42%15%5%
60+ 2014Having help around the house
Having someone to talk to
Other
Don't know
Neither
IF LIVE ALONE: What do you miss most about living with other people?
(N=289)
IF LIVE ALONE: What is your biggest concern or fear about living alone?
(N=289)
I don't have any fears about living
alone
Falling or injuring yourself
Feeling isolated or lonely
Not receiving the support I need
Other Don't know
61%
26%
6% 4% 2% 1%
60+ 2...
24%
42
Q44 (For 2014 60+) Which of the following types of support [do you/would you] need to live alone? of the following types of support [do you/would you] need to live alone?
Which of the following types of support [do you/would you] need to live alone? 60+ 2014
No support is needed 58%
Transportation 25%
Nutritional support (buying groceries, preparing food, etc.) 21%
Help walking up the stairs 10%
Managing medications 10%
Taking a shower 8%
Other 3%
Don't know 3%
Most seniors do not think they need any support to live alone
43
Q45 (For 2014 60+). IF LIVE ALONE: Which of the following options would you consider if you could no longer care for yourself?
If they were no longer able to care for themselves, seniors who live alone would most likely turn to assisted living communities and community support
programs
IF LIVE ALONE: Which of the following options would you consider if you could no longer care for yourself?
(N=302)
• Even though family support is important for seniors, moving in with family would not be their top choice if they were no longer able to care for themselves
Don't know
Living in a nursing home 20
Hiring a paid caregiver
Moving in with a family member or friend
Receiving help from community programs
Moving to an assisted living community
10%
20%
32%
36%
40%
48%
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
45
Q46 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). Who is the most influential person in your life encouraging you to stay healthy or get healthier?
Seniors are most likely to say that their motivation to stay or get healthy comes from themselves
Who is the most influential person in your life encouraging you to stay healthy or get healthier?
39%
26%
15%
7%3% 2% 1% 0%
6%
1%
43%
20%16%
4% 3%0%
2% 1%
10%
0%
60+ 2014
18-59 2014
Nearly 4 in 10 seniors have not done anything to reduce the chance of fall in the past year
46
*Not showing “don’t know”Q51a (For 2014 60+). In the past 12 months, which of the following have you done to reduce your chance of a fall? Among All. Q32 (For 2013 60+). In the past 12 months, which of the following have you done to reduce your chance of a fall? Among All.
In the past 12 months, which of the following have you done to reduce your chance of a fall?
(N=491)
37%
30%
22%
11% 11%
6%8%
39%37%
28%
22%
13% 12%
3%5%
43%
60+ 2014 60+ 2013
More seniors than last year say they exercise daily
47
60+ 2014
60+ 2013
16%
18%
8%
8%
17%
18%
21%
28%
37%
26%
*Not showing “don’t know”Q47 (For 2014 60+). How often do you typically exercise for 30 minutes or more? Among All. Q33 (For 2013 60+). How often do you typically exercise for 30 minutes or more? Among All.
How often do you typically exercise for 30 minutes or more?
(N=489)
NeverOnce / twice
a week
Less than
once a week
More than twice a week but not
every day
Every day
More seniors than last year say they have set specific goals to manage their health
48
Q48 (For 2014 60+). In the past 12 months, did you set one or more specific goals to manage your health? Among All.Q34 (For 2013 60+). In the past 12 months, did you set one or more specific goals to manage your health? Among All.
47%51%
1%60+ 2013
Yes No Don’t Know
In the past 12 months, did you set one or more specific goals to manage your health?
(N=489)
53%46%
1%60+ 2014
Yes No Don’t Know
Nearly half of seniors say it is easy to achieve their health goals
49
*Not showing “don’t know”Q49 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). IF SET HEALTH GOALS: How easy or difficult is it to achieve your health goals?
IF SET HEALTH GOALS: How easy or difficult is it to achieve your health goals?
Very difficult
Neither easy nor difficult
Somewhat
difficult
Somewhat easy
Very easy
25%
31%
13%
16%
11%
11%
39%
32%
11%
9%60+ 2014
18-59 2014
50
Q50 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). IF SET HEALTH GOALS: What goals did you set to manage your health? you] need to live alone?
IF SET HEALTH GOALS: What goals did you set to manage your health? (Ranked by 60+ 2014)
60+ 2014(N=260)
18-59 2014
(N=438)
Eat healthier 37% 41%
Lose weight 30% 30%
Live a more physically active lifestyle 24% 32%
Visit my doctor regularly 12% 7%
Take necessary medication regularly 12% 5%
Go to the gym twice a week 8% 13%
Get more sleep 7% 8%
Take more vitamins 6% 6%
Quit smoking 4% 4%
Quit drinking 2% 4%
Other 14% 17%
Don't know 2% 2%
Top health goals are a healthier diet, weight loss and more physical activity
4 in 10 seniors say that a balanced diet and regular exercise are equally important
51
60+ 2014
18-59 2014
42%
30%
2%
1%
20%
31%
36%
37%
*Not showing “don’t know”Q51 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). Which is more important in maintaining your health, a balanced diet or regular exercise?
Which is more important in maintaining your health, a balanced diet or regular exercise?
Both are equally important
Regular exercise
Neither
A balanced diet
About half of seniors nationally say they have created a will or designated a power of attorney for health care
52
Q52 (For 2014 60+). Have you taken any of the following steps to plan for your care at the end-of-life? Among All. Q39 (For 2013 60+). Have you taken any of the following steps to plan for your care at the end-of-life? Among All.
Have you taken any of the following steps to plan for your care at the end-of-life?
(Ranked by Seniors 60+ 2014)
Spoke
n with
love
d ones co
ncern
ing y...
Created
adva
nce dire
ctive
s such
...
Share
d your a
dvance
d directi
ve...
Designated
a power
of attorn
ey or ..
.
Paid/p
lanned
for s
ervice
s des
ire...
Share
d your a
dvance
d directi
ves w
i...
Don't wan
t to plan/th
ink ab...
None of t
he above
Don't know
58%53% 50%
44%
31% 28%
10% 13%
0%
62%54%
49%
31%
8%12%
1%
60+ 2014 60+ 2013
N/A N/A
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
One in three seniors have prescriptions from more than one doctor; among those with multiple prescriptions, most report that their doctors review their
medications at every visit
53
*Not showing “don’t know”Q53 (For 2014 60+). Do you have prescriptions from more than one doctor?Q54 (For 2014 60+). IF YES: How many?Q55 (For 2014 60+). IF YES: Do the doctors prescribing medications review the other medications you are taking each time you visit with them?
Do you have prescriptions from more than one
doctor?
35%
64%
1%60+ 2014
Yes No Don’t Know
Two Three Four Five More than five
Don't know
45%
22%
11%6%
13%
4%
60+ 2014
IF YES: How many?(N=171)
IF YES IF YES: Do the doctors prescribing medications review the other medications you are taking each time you visit with
them?
Yes No Don’t Know
92%
7% 1%
60+ 2...
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Nearly 4 in 10 seniors never discuss their medications with their pharmacist when picking up their prescription
54
*Not showing “don’t know”Q56 (For 2014 60+). When picking up your prescriptions, how often do you and your pharmacist speak about the medications you are taking and any potential problems such as out of date prescriptions, conflicts with other medications you have taken in the past or side effects of taking these medications?Q57 (For 2014 60+). IF ALWAYS, SOMETIMES, OR RARELY: Who usually initiates these conversations, you or your pharmacist?
When picking up your prescriptions, how often do you
and your pharmacist speak about the medications you are
taking and any potential problems such as out of date prescriptions, conflicts with other medications you have
taken in the past or side effects of taking these medications?
IF ALWAYS, SOMETIMES, OR RARELY: Who usually initiates these conversations, you
or your pharmacist?
IF ALWAYS, SOMETIMES
, OR RARELY
60+ 2014
39%
15%
21%
21%
Always
Some-times
Rarely
Never
40%
53%
7%60+ 2014
You Your pharmacistDon’t Know
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Most seniors are comfortable asking for lower cost drug options and most say they are never confused about what medication to take
55
*Not showing “don’t know”Q58 (For 2014 60+). How comfortable do you feel asking your health care provider to prescribe generic medications, or discussing lower cost drug options when you are getting a prescription?Q59 (For 2014 60+). How often do you get confused about what medications to take?
How comfortable do you feel asking your health care provider to prescribe generic medications, or discussing lower cost drug options
when you are getting a prescription?79%
9% 5% 2% 2%
60+ 2014
Always Sometimes Rarely Never
2% 4%12%
80%
60+ 2014
How often do you get confused about what medications to take?
56
Q60 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). Which of the following is most important to you with respect to your health care providers?ou] need to live alone?
Which of the following is most important to you with respect to your health care providers? (Ranked by 60+ 2014)
60+ 2014 18-59 2014
They treat me with honesty and respect 27% 24%
They’re knowledgeable about my medical history 19% 20%
They’re proactively engages in managing my health 19% 18%
They have access to the best technology 7% 12%
They have a good bedside manner 5% 6%
They are cost conscious 4% 5%
They adhere to treatment guidelines 1% 1%
Other 13% 11%
Don't know 4% 3%
Seniors most value respect and honesty in their health care providers
Most expect their health care costs to increase in the next five to 10 years
57
Decrease significa
ntly
Stay about
the same
Decrease somewha
t
Increase somewhat
Increase significa
ntly
When thinking about the next five to 10 years, do you expect your health care costs to increase significantly, increase somewhat, stay
about the same, decrease somewhat, or decrease significantly?
*Not showing “don’t know”Q61 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your health care costs…?
60+ 2014
18-59 2014
27%
28%
33%
33%
31%
31%
5%
3%
2%
1%
The majority of seniors say it would be helpful if their Primary Care Physician could take on more responsibilities for specialized care
58
*Not showing “don’t know”Q62 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). If Primary Care Physicians took on more responsibility for specialized care that you would otherwise receive from a specialist such as a cardiologist or endocrinologist, how helpful would that be in managing your health?
If Primary Care Physicians took on more responsibility for specialized care that you would otherwise receive from a
specialist such as a cardiologist or endocrinologist, how helpful would that be in managing your health?
Not at all helpful
Somewhat helpful
Not very helpful
Very helpful
35%
31%
32%
34%
15%
10%
15%
17%60+ 2014
18-59 2014
Most seniors also say they understand the cost of their health care treatment well
59
*Not showing “don’t know”Q63 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). How well do you understand the cost of your health care treatment before you receive it?
How well do you understand the cost of your health care treatment before you receive it?
Not well at all
Somewhat
well
Not very well
Very well
37%
35%
39%
47%
14%
9%
8%
6%60+ 2014
18-59 2014
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Many seniors say they research the cost of health care services prior to receiving treatment
60
*Not showing “don’t know”Q64 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). Prior to receiving treatment, do you seek out information about the cost of your treatment from your health care providers, your insurance company, both or neither?Q65 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). Would you like to receive more information about the cost of your health care before you are treated?
Prior to receiving treatment, do you seek out information about the cost of your treatment from your health
care providers, your insurance company, both or neither?
Would you like to receive more information about the cost of your health care before
you are treated?
12%
5%
33%
47%
9% 9%
40% 40%
60+ 2014 18-59 2014
54%43%
3%60+ 2014
Yes
No
Don't know
65%
34%
1%18-59 2014
• A majority of seniors would like more information about costs before treatment
Most seniors value the role of their health insurance provider in helping them with their health and wellness
61
*Not showing “don’t know”Q66 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). How important of a role does your health insurance provider play in helping with your health and wellness?
How important of a role does your health insurance provider play in helping with your health and wellness?
Not at all importan
t
Somewhat
important
Not very importan
t
Very important
34%
30%
43%
48%
9%
9%
12%
11%60+ 2014
18-59 2014
Most seniors are confident that they are prepared for changes in their health as they age
62
*Not showing “don’t know”Q67 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). How confident are you that you are prepared for changes in your health as you age?
How confident are you that you are prepared for changes in your health as you age?
Not at all confident
Somewhat
confident
Not very confident
Very confident
52%
47%
30%
38%
10%
9%
7%
5%60+ 2014
18-59 2014
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Most seniors value annual wellness visits
63
*Not showing “don’t know”Q68 (For 2014 60+). How helpful is it to have annual wellness visits with your health care provider to help manage your health?
How helpful is it to have annual wellness visits with your health care provider to help manage your health?
Very helpful Somewhat helpful Not very helpful Not at all helpful
52%
26%
5%12%
60+ 2014
A majority of seniors say it would be helpful to have access to electronic health records
64
*Not showing “don’t know”Q70 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). How helpful would it be to have access to an electronic health record that you can access online, which contains your medical history, information about your prescriptions, etc.?
How helpful would it be to have access to an electronic health record that you can access online, which contains your medical history,
information about your prescriptions, etc.?
Not at all helpful
Somewhat
helpful
Not very helpful
Very helpful
26%
33%
44%
32%
8%
10%
20%
34%60+ 2014
18-59 2014
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Among seniors with caregivers, almost all say their caregiver has access to their medical records
65
Q71 (For 2014 60+). IF HAVE CAREGIVER: Does the person who helps you have access to up to date information regarding your health care needs, such as your insurance information, medical records or your doctor’s contact information?Q72 (For 2014 18-59). Do you have access to up to date information regarding the health care needs of your family members, such as your insurance information, medical records or your doctor’s contact information?
IF HAVE CAREGIVER: Does the person who helps you have access
to up-to-date information regarding your health care needs, such as
your insurance information, medical records or your doctor’s contact
information?
Do you have access to up-to-date information regarding the health care needs of your family members, such as
your insurance information, medical records or your doctor’s contact
information?
78%
21%
2%18-59 2014
Yes
No
Don’t Know
88%
11% 1%60+ 2014
YesNoDon’t Know
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Most seniors have not been referred to local health and wellness resources by their health provider
66
Q73 (For 2014 60+). Has your health provider ever referred you to local resources that provide medication management, nutrition, transportation and/or wellness programs?
Has your health provider ever referred you to local resources that provide medication management, nutrition, transportation
and/or wellness programs?
19%
80%
2%60+ 2014
YesNoDon’t Know
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Most seniors say their health care professionals work together to coordinate their care
67
Q75 (For 2014 60+). IF SEEN MORE THAN 1 HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL: Do your health professionals coordinate with one another about your health care?
IF SEEN MORE THAN 1 HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL: Do your health professionals coordinate with one another about your
health care?
71%
20%
9%
60+ 2014
YesNoDon’t Know
A large majority of seniors have seen a Primary Care Physician in the past year, but very few have seen a geriatrician
68
*Not showing “don’t know”Q74 (For 2014 60+). Which of the following types of health care professionals have you seen in the past year? Please tell me all that apply. Among all Q41 (For 2013 60+). Which of the following types of health care professionals have you seen in the past year? Please tell me all that apply. Among all
Which of the following types of health care professionals have you seen in the past year?
Primary care physician
Physician's assistant or nurse practitioner
Dentist
Ophthalmologist or other eye doctor
Specialist such as a cardiologist or endocrinologist
Emergency room doctor
Geriatrician
Nurse practitioner
None of the above
Other
81%
33%
60%
58%
39%
20%
3%
25%
4%
9%
88%
N/A
60%
60%
36%
N/A
4%
N/A
3%
N/A
2013 60+
2014 60+
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
More than half of seniors with chronic illnesses say their health condition(s) does not impact their every day life
69
*Not showing “don’t know”Q77 (For 2014 60+). IF AT LEAST 1 CHRONIC ILLNESS: How much do your health conditions impact your ability to do the things you want every day? Q78 (For 2014 60+). IF AT LEAST 1 CHRONIC ILLNESS: How much support do you receive from your family members, and/or friends, and/or spouse to help manage your health conditions?
IF AT LEAST 1 CHRONIC ILLNESS: How much do your health conditions impact your ability to do the things you want every day? (N=880)
A great deal Some Not very much Not at all
18%
26% 25%31%
60+ 2014
A great deal Some Not very much support
No support at all
36%
27%
13%
22%
60+ 2014
IF AT LEAST 1 CHRONIC ILLNESS: How much support do you receive from your family members, and/or friends, and/or spouse to help manage your health
conditions? (N=880)
COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS
More seniors feel that their community is prepared for a growing senior population compared to last year, but younger adults are less likely to agree
71
Q79 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). Do you feel your community – meaning the city/town you live in – is doing enough to prepare for the needs of a growing senior population? Among All.Q58 (For 2013 60+, 2013 18-59). Do you feel your community – meaning the city/town you live in – is doing enough to prepare for the needs of a growing senior population? Among All.
49%33%
18%
60+ 2013
41%
45%
14%18-59 2013
Do you feel your community – meaning the city/town you live in – is doing enough to prepare for the needs of a growing
senior population?
54%30%
16%60+ 2014
Yes
No
Don’t Know
43%
42%
15%18-59 2014
Yes
No
Don't Know
72
Q80 (For 2014 60+). What services do you anticipate needing as you age? Please tell me all that apply. ] need to live alone?
What services do you anticipate needing as you age? Please tell me all that apply.
60+ 2014(N= 493)
Support doing maintenance on your house 40%
Support with transportation 39%
Support with long-term care, which might include home care, assisted living, adult daycare, etc.
36%
Support managing your health and wellness 29%
Support managing your nutrition and/or meals 24%
Support to stay socially connected 24%
Support managing disease prevention 19%
Support exploring housing options 17%
Support managing your finances 15%
Support getting around your home 14%
Other 11%
Don't know 15%
Seniors anticipate needing the most help with home maintenance and transportation
73
Q81 (For 2014 60+). Which of the following needs, if any, does your community help meet for its older citizens?alone?
Which of the following needs, if any, does your community help meet for its older citizens?
60+ 2014(N=507 )
Support with transportation 48%
Support managing your nutrition and/or meals 41%
Support to stay socially connected 41%
Support with long-term care, which might include home care, assisted living, adult daycare, etc.
38%
Support managing your health and wellness 32%
Support managing disease prevention 26%
Support exploring housing options 25%
Support doing maintenance on your house 22%
Support getting around your home 21%
Support managing your finances 13%
Other 8%
Don't know 23%
While nearly half of seniors nationally say their community is currently helping with transportation, only 22 percent say the same for home
maintenance
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
More than half of seniors say they have adequate access to transportation and quality health care; fewer say they have adequate access to affordable housing
options
74
Q82 (For 2014 60+, 18-59 2014). Do you think your community provides seniors with adequate access to transportation?Q83 (For 2014 60+, 18-59 2014). Do you think your community provides seniors with adequate access to affordable housing options?Q84 (For 2014 60+, 18-59 2014). Do you think your community provides seniors with adequate access to affordable quality health care?
Do you think your community provides seniors
with adequate access to transportation?
59%26%
15%60+ 2014
YesNoDon’t Know
56%32%
12%18-59 2014
YesNoDon’t Know
39%
33%
28%
60+ 2014
44%
37%
20%
18-59 2014
Do you think your community provides seniors
with adequate access to affordable housing options?
Do you think your community provides
seniors with adequate access to quality health
care?
59%22%
20%
60+ 2014
58%27%
15%18-59 2014
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Most seniors say they would rely on friends and family for rides if they were no longer able to get around on their own
75
Q85 (For 2014 60+).If you are or were no longer able to drive, how would you get around? Please tell me all that apply.
If you are or were no longer able to drive, how would you get around? Please tell me all that apply.
81%
38% 37%
8%2%
60+ 2014
ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY
Seniors continue to say that it is important to use technology
77
*Not showing “don’t know”Q86 (For 2014 60+, 2014 18-59). How important is it that seniors use technology? Among All. Q62 (For 2013 60+, 2013 18-59). How important is it that seniors use technology? Among All.
How important is it that seniors use technology?
Not at all importan
t
Somewhat important
Not very importan
t
Very important
46%
46%
38%
38%
42%
37%
45%
42%
7%
8%
7%
8%
4%
5%
7%
9%60+ 2014
18-59 2014
18-59 2013
60+ 2013
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
But most seniors are concerned with online scams and having their information misused by companies
78
*Not showing “don’t know”Q87 (For 2014 60+). How concerned are you about being taken advantage of through online scams?Q88 (For 2014 60+). How concerned are you about companies misusing the information you share with them online?
How concerned are you about being taken advantage of through online scams?
Very concerned Somewhat concerned
Not very concerned Not at all concerened
30%
20%
13%
29%
60+ 2014
How concerned are you about companies misusing the information you share with them online?
Very concerned Somewhat concerned
Not very concerned Not at all concerened
39%
28%
8%14%60+ 2014
OVERSAMPLED COHORTS
Eight percent of seniors nationally are “socially isolated” – defined as living alone and experiencing feelings of loneliness
80
Q4 (For 2014 60+). Who else lives in your home with you? Among All. Q5 (For 2014 60+). How often do you feel lonely or isolated from others? Among All.
Seniors nationally living
alone
Seniors nationally
feeling lonely
29% 21%8%
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Socially-isolated seniors are more likely to say the past year has been worse than normal and are less optimistic about their life getting better in the next
decade
81
In general, would you say the past year of your life has been...?
When thinking about the next five to 10 years, do you expect your overall quality of life to get much better, somewhat better, stay
about the same, get somewhat worse, or get much worse?
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors5% 7% 13%
17% 13%
29%
53% 60%
48%
19% 13%8%5% 5% 2%
The best yet
Better than normal
Normal
Worse than normal
The worst yet
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors
5% 6% 9%16% 14%
21%
49% 55%45%
17% 11% 16%11% 11% 5%
Much better
Somewhat better
Stay about the same
Somewhat worse
Much worse
*Not showing “don’t know”Q 6 (For 2014 60+), In general, would you say the past year of your life has been…? Among All.Q7 (For 2014 60+). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your overall quality of life to get…? Among All.
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
While socially-isolated seniors are more likely to say their health in the past year has been worse than normal, they are more optimistic that their health will improve in the next decade
compared with seniors nationally
82
With regard to your health, would you say the past year of your life has been...?
When thinking about the next five to 10 years, do you expect your health to get much better, get somewhat better, stay about the
same, get somewhat worse, or get much worse?
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors
4% 8% 12%19% 17%
27%
58% 60%50%
16% 9% 8%2% 6% 2%
The best yet
Better than normal
Normal
Worse than normal
The worst yet
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors
4% 4% 8%
21% 23% 22%
55% 52% 43%
10% 11% 15%7% 8% 6%
Much better
Somewhat better
Stay about the same
Somewhat worse
Much worse
*Not showing “don’t know”Q9 (For 2014 60+). With regard to your health, would you say the past year of your life has been…? Among All.Q10 (For 2014 60+). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your health…? Among All.
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Low-income and socially-isolated seniors find in-home visits more helpful compared with seniors nationally
83
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors
44% 39%29%
15%9%
10%
22%
10% 23%
17%
36%32% Very helpful
Somewhat helpful
Not very helpful
Not at all helpful
*Not showing “don’t know”Q69 (For 2014 60+). How helpful would it be to have a health care provider visit you in your home to better manage your health between annual visits;, rather than going to the doctor’s office?
How helpful would it be to have a health care provider visit you in your home to better manage your health between annual visits, rather than
going to the doctor’s office?
Low-income and socially-isolated seniors say they have done less preparation for their senior years than seniors nationally
84
How much preparation have you done for your senior years?
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors
11%22% 16%
14%
26%
17%
43%
35%
45%
30%15% 19%
A great deal of prepara-tion
Some preparation
Little preparation
No preparation
*Not showing “don’t know”Q12 (For 2014 60+). How much preparation have you done for your senior years? Among All.
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Socially-isolated seniors say they have greater difficulty paying monthly bills than seniors nationally
85
In general, based on your current income and savings, how easy or difficult is it for you to pay your monthly living
expenses? Is it...
60+ 2014 Socially-Isolated Seniors4% 6%13%
24%11%
13%
33%
28%
36%26%
Very easy
Somewhat easy
Neither easy or difficult
Somewhat difficult
Very difficult
Q20 (For 2014 60+). In general, based on your current income and savings, how easy or difficult is it for you to pay your monthly living expenses? Is it... Among All
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Low-income seniors also say they have greater difficulty paying monthly bills than seniors nationally
86
In general, based on your current income and savings, how easy or difficult is it for you to pay your monthly living
expenses? Is it...
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors4% 10%13%
23%11%
14%33%
33%
36%
20%
Very easy
Somewhat easy
Neither easy or difficult
Somewhat difficult
Very difficult
Q20 (For 2014 60+). In general, based on your current income and savings, how easy or difficult is it for you to pay your monthly living expenses? Is it... Among All
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Socially-isolated seniors are more concerned about having enough savings, being able to remain in their home, and needing help from their community
than seniors nationally
87
How concerned are you…(Showing very + somewhat concerned, ranked by 60+ 2014)
60+ 2014Low-
Income Seniors
Socially-Isolated Seniors
That your savings and income will be sufficient to last for the rest of your life
49% 53% 58%
That you could afford a licensed caregiver in your home or assisted living if needed
41% 32% 46%
That you could afford a nursing home if needed 39% 30% 44%
About being able to stay in your current home for as long as you’d like
29% 34% 52%
About needing help from community programs to assist with meals, transportation, and/or home care
26% 25% 36%
About needing financial support from family members as you age
19% 24% 25%
Being able to continue working as long as you would like 17% 14% 20%
• Low-income seniors are less concerned about being able to afford a licensed in-home caregiver or a nursing home than seniors nationally
g21MA (For 2014 60+). How concerned are you…[INSERT FROM SERIES]? Are you…?
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Despite feelings of loneliness, socially-isolated seniors are more likely to want to continue living in their current home for the rest of their lives than seniors
nationally
88
Do you intend to continue living in your current home for the rest of your life?
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors
77% 77%
84%
Yes
Would you prefer to live alone, or with family members for the remainder of your senior years? (Ranked by 60+ 2014)
60+ 2014Low-
Income Seniors
Socially-Isolated Seniors
Alone 53% 72% 87%With family members 41% 23% 8%Neither 3% 3% 2%
• Socially-isolated seniors are more likely to prefer living alone than with family members for their remaining years, compared with seniors nationally
*Not showing “don’t know”Q30 (For 2014 60+). Do you intend to continue living in your current home for the rest of your life?Q39 (For 2014 60+). Would you prefer to live alone, or with family members for the remainder of your senior years?
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Yet, socially-isolated seniors are less likely to say it is easy to live alone than seniors nationally
89
*Not showing “don’t know”Q41 (For 2014 60+). IF LIVE ALONE: How easy or difficult is it to live alone?
IF LIVE ALONE: How easy or difficult is it to live alone?
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors3% 3% 3%
11% 7%22%
12%8%
13%23%
24%
31%
49%57%
28%Very easy
Somewhat easy
Neither easy or difficult
Somewhat difficult
Very difficult
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Low-income seniors are less likely to say they have set health goals in the past year than seniors nationally
90
In the past 12 months, did you set one or more specific goals to manage your health?
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors
53%
39%47%
Yes
Q48 (For 2014 60+). In the past 12 months, did you set one or more specific goals to manage your health? Among All.
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Low-income seniors are less likely to think health care costs will increase in the next decade than seniors nationally
91
When thinking about the next five to 10 years, do you expect your health care costs to increase significantly, increase somewhat, stay
about the same, decrease somewhat, or decrease significantly?
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors
1% 1%3% 2%2%
28%38%
23%
33%27%
34%
31% 27%34% Increase significantly
Increase somewhat
Stay about the same
Decrease somewhat
Decrease significantly
*Not showing “don’t know”Q61 (For 2014 60). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your health care costs to…?
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Low-income seniors are not as convinced that their community is prepared for the needs of a growing senior population as seniors nationally
92
Do you feel your community – meaning the city/town you live in – is doing enough to prepare for the needs of a growing
senior population?
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors
54%44%
52%
Yes
Q79 (For 2014 60+). Do you feel your community – meaning the city/town you live in – is doing enough to prepare for the needs of a growing senior population? Among All.
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Both low-income and socially-isolated seniors are more likely to say they will need help with transportation as they age than seniors nationally
93
What services do you anticipate needing as you age? Please tell me all that apply. (Ranked by 60+ 2014)
60+ 2014Low-
Income Seniors
Socially-Isolated Seniors
Support doing maintenance on your house 40% 29% 42%
Support with transportation 39% 53% 48%
Support with long-term care, which might include home care, assisted living, adult daycare, etc.
36% 40% 37%
Support managing your health and wellness 29% 34% 31%
Support managing your nutrition and/or meals 24% 22% 28%
Support to stay socially connected 24% 23% 32%
Support managing disease prevention 19% 21% 17%
Support exploring housing options 17% 14% 17%
Support managing your finances 15% 17% 16%
Support getting around your home 14% 25% 15%
Other 11% 14% 7%
Don't know 15% 11% 13%
Q80 (For 2014 60+). What services do you anticipate needing as you age? Please tell me all that apply.] need to live alone?
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Socially-isolated seniors are less likely to say their community provides transportation support than seniors nationally
94
Which of the following needs, if any, does your community help meet for its older citizens? (Ranked by 60+ 2014)
60+ 2014Low-
Income Seniors
Socially-Isolated Seniors
Support with transportation 48% 50% 36%
Support managing your nutrition and/or meals 41% 43% 27%
Support to stay socially connected 41% 36% 31%
Support with long-term care, which might include home care, assisted living, adult daycare, etc.
38% 43% 30%
Support managing your health and wellness 32% 38% 20%
Support managing disease prevention 26% 33% 12%
Support exploring housing options 25% 32% 16%
Support doing maintenance on your house 22% 36% 14%
Support getting around your home 21% 28% 12%
Support managing your finances 13% 18% 8%
Other 8% 8% 18%
Don't know 23% 30% 25%
Q81 (For 2014 60+). Which of the following needs, if any, does your community help meet for its older citizens? ] need to live alone?
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Both low-income and socially-isolated seniors are less likely to say using technology is important compared with seniors nationally
95
60+ 2014 Low-Income Seniors Socially-Isolated Seniors
9% 13% 12%8%
13% 9%
38%31%
34%
42% 35% 37% Very important
Somewhat important
Not very important
Not at all important
*Not showing “don’t know”Q86 (For 2014 60+). How important is it that seniors use technology? Among All.
How important is it that seniors use technology?
OVERSAMPLED REGIONS
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Seniors living in Newark and Cleveland are less likely to say the past year has been better than normal but are nearly as optimistic for the future as seniors
nationally
97
In general, would you say the past year of your life has been...?
When thinking about the next five to 10 years, do you expect your overall quality of life to get much better, somewhat better, stay about the same, get somewhat
worse, or get much worse?
60+ 2014 Dallas Seniors Newark Seniors Cleveland Seniors5% 8% 7% 4%
17% 17% 21% 24%
53% 48%54% 55%
19% 17%12% 13%
5% 9% 5% 3%
The best yet
Better than normal
Normal
Worse than normal
The worst yet
60+ 2014 Dallas Seniors Newark Seniors Cleveland Seniors
5% 3% 3% 4%16% 14% 19% 17%
49% 55% 49% 54%
17% 15% 17% 16%11% 10% 8% 8%
Much better
Somewhat better
Stay about the same
Somewhat worse
Much worse
*Not showing “don’t know”Q6 (For 2014 60+), In general, would you say the past year of your life has been…? Among All.Q7 (For 2014 60+). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your overall quality of life to get…? Among All.
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Seniors in Newark and Cleveland are less likely to say their health has been better than normal in the past year, but they are nearly as optimistic about their future health as
seniors nationally
98
With regard to your health, would you say the past year of your life has been...?
When thinking about the next five to 10 years, do you expect your health to get much better, get somewhat better, stay about the same, get somewhat worse,
or get much worse?
60+ 2014 Dallas Seniors Newark Seniors Cleveland Seniors
4% 8% 8% 6%19%
21% 18% 20%
58% 54% 64% 62%
16% 13% 10% 12%2% 3% 1%
The best yet
Better than normal
Normal
Worse than normal
The worst yet
60+ 2014 Dallas Seniors Newark Seniors Cleveland Seniors4% 3% 4% 2%21% 21% 24% 20%
55% 55% 56% 62%
10% 12% 7% 9%7% 6% 6% 5%
Much better
Somewhat better
Stay about the same
Somewhat worse
Much worse
*Not showing “don’t know”Q9 (For 2014 60+). With regard to your health, would you say the past year of your life has been…Among All.Q10 (For 2014 60+). When thinking about the next 5-10 years, do you expect your health to get…? Among All.
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Dallas seniors are less concerned about having enough savings and income and needing help from their community than seniors nationally
99
How concerned are you……(Showing very + somewhat concerned, ranked by 60+ 2-14)
60+ 2014
Dallas Seniors
Newark Seniors
Cleveland
Seniors
That your savings and income will be sufficient to last for the rest of your life
49% 37% 47% 45%
That you could afford a licensed caregiver in your home or assisted living if needed
41% 31% 40% 36%
That you could afford a nursing home if needed 39% 37% 33% 38%
About being able to stay in your current home for as long as you’d like
29% 29% 35% 36%
About needing help from community programs to assist with meals, transportation, and/or home care
26% 17% 23% 22%
About needing financial support from family members as you age
19% 16% 19% 13%
Being able to continue working as long as you would like
17% 11% 15% 14%
Q21MA (For 2014 60+). How concerned are you…[INSERT FROM SERIES]? Are you…?
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Newark seniors are less likely to say they intend to continue living in their current home than seniors nationally
100
Do you intend to continue living in your current home for the rest of your life?
60+ 2014 Dallas Seniors Newark Seniors Cleveland Seniors
77% 82%64%
81%
Yes
Would you prefer to live alone, or with family members for the remainder of your senior years? (Ranked by 60+ 2014)
60+ 2014
Dallas Seniors
Newark Seniors
Cleveland Seniors
Alone 53% 68% 59% 62%With family members 41% 29% 34% 30%Neither 3% 1% 4% 3%
• Dallas and Cleveland seniors are more likely to intend on continuing to live in their home than seniors nationally
• Seniors in all three oversampled markets are more likely to prefer to live alone than seniors nationally
*Not showing “don’t know”Q30 (For 2014 60+). Do you intend to continue living in your current home for the rest of your life?Q39 (For 2014 60+). Would you prefer to live alone, or with family members for the remainder of your senior years?
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Seniors living alone in Newark are less likely to expect to live alone for the rest of their life than seniors nationally
101
IF LIVING ALONE: Do you expect to live alone for the rest of your life?
60+ 2014 Dallas Seniors Newark Seniors Cleveland Seniors
81% 82%
74%
87%
Yes
• Newark seniors living alone find it more difficult to live alone than seniors nationally living alone
IF LIVE ALONE: How easy or difficult is it to live alone?
60+ 2014 Dallas Seniors Newark Seniors Cleveland Seniors
3% 2% 1%11% 13% 21% 14%
12% 10%19%
13%
23% 21%
23%32%
49% 54%37% 40% Very easy
Somewhat easy
Neither easy or difficult
Somewhat difficult
Very difficult
Q40 (For 2014 60+). IF LIFE ALONE: Do you expect to live alone for the rest of your life?Q41 (For 2014 60+). IF LIVE ALONE: How easy or difficult is it to live alone
• Among those that did receive help, many were not asked for their input
Seniors living in Dallas are less likely to say their communities are prepared for the needs of a growing senior population than seniors nationally
102
Do you feel your community – meaning the city/town you live in – is doing enough to prepare for the needs of a growing
senior population?
60+ 2014 Dallas Seniors Newark Seniors Cleveland Seniors
54%
47%49%
52%
Yes
Q79 (For 2014 60+ and 2014 18-59). Do you feel your community – meaning the city/town you live in – is doing enough to prepare for the needs of a growing senior population? Among All.
MEDIA CONTACTS JESSICA PAPPAS, UNITEDHEALTHCARE(410) 735-8725, [email protected]
VANESSA SINK, NATIONAL COUNCIL ON AGING (202) 600-3131, [email protected]
DALLAS JAMISON, N4A(720) 333-1494, [email protected]