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AARP survey reveals top priorities and concerns of Michiganders aged 45 and older

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The findings highlight evolving needs and are useful for influencing policy.

A survey conducted by AARP of Michigan asked 704 adults over the age of 45 questions focused on health care, financial security, caregiving and livable communities.

The top concern of older Michiganders is their financial security with 92% of respondents declaring Social Security benefits should be protected.

There’s also concern about family caregiving and state funding with 87% - nearly 9 in 10 – saying state long-term care should shift from nursing homes to in-home care. And 86% want caregivers to receive a state income tax credit to cover their out-of-pocket expenses.

Eighty-two percent are concerned about rising property taxes and 65% are worried about rising prescription drug costs. Many of them favor a state advisory panel controlling prices.

This is the second Vital Voices survey of all 50 states. It provides AARP with findings it can share with community leaders and policymakers.

Patrick joined WGVU Public Media in December, 2008 after eight years of investigative reporting at Grand Rapids' WOOD-TV8 and three years at WYTV News Channel 33 in Youngstown, Ohio. As News and Public Affairs Director, Patrick manages our daily radio news operation and public interest television programming. An award-winning reporter, Patrick has won multiple Michigan Associated Press Best Reporter/Anchor awards and is a three-time Academy of Television Arts & Sciences EMMY Award winner with 14 nominations.