National Poll on Healthy Aging Reports Health and Health Care
National Poll on Healthy Aging Reports
NPHA is sponsored by AARP and the University of Michigan
Sponsored by AARP and the University of Michigan, the is a recurring, nationally representative household survey. By tapping into the perspectives of older adults and their caregivers, the NPHA helps inform the public, health care providers, policymakers, and advocates on issues related to health, health care, and health policy affecting U.S. adults age 50–80 and their families. Launched in spring 2017, the NPHA grew out of a strong interest in aging-related issues among many members of the , which brings together more than 600 faculty who study health, health care and the impacts of health policy. In addition to IHPI and AARP, the poll receives support from , U-M's academic medical center. These poll results elevate the voices of the public, inspire future research, and inform national dialogue. U-M researchers also evaluate the poll data for further insights that are shared via academic channels. You are welcome to sign up for . For media inquiries, please visit the . Read the NPHA Reports
2022
Supporting everything from health care needs and personal care to home repairs and finances brings both challenges and rewards for adults over 50. Older adults report high interest but uneven use of at-home medical tests to screen for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, some cancers, and potential genetic health risks. Nearly half of older adults say arthritis or joint pain limits their usual activities, but many haven’t talked to a doctor about medication risks. Many older adults look beyond conventional medicine for help, but few talk to their doctors about it, poll finds. Poll shows impact of menopause and other health issues on older women’s sex lives. Most older adults want to ‘age in place’ but many have not taken steps to help them do so. Elective surgery comes with costs, discomfort, caregiving needs, and more – but most older adults who opt for an operation were very satisfied they did. Health apps could help older adults with anything from sleep to diabetes, but many do not use them. 2021
The COVID-19 pandemic has had complex effects on the emotional and mental health of older adults. Many older Americans plan to take long trips soon, and most say they’ll take steps to anticipate medical needs while away for two weeks or more. Many older adults with chronic health conditions are not checking blood pressure at home or being encouraged to do so. Poll finds tax-free accounts used less by those who may need them most. Pandemic may have increased older adults’ fall risk, poll suggests. Poll finds risky drinking patterns in older adults during hte COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic worsened many older adults mental health, but they've also shown long-term resilience. Less than half of adults over 50 have formally recorded their medical care preferences if they get seriously ill. Most adults over 50 have not been screened or tested for hearing loss in the past two years. Poll shows disparities among older adults in their ability to isolate at home or get outside. 2020
Wait times, COVID-19 risk, and costs top concerns about seeking emergency care. Over half of older adults say they’ll get a COVID-19 vaccine, but many want to wait. Poll shows the majority of older adults who take multiple medications have never had a comprehensive medication review. Poll shows loneliness doubled among older adults in first months of COVID-19. Telehealth visits have skyrocketed for older adults, but some concerns and barriers remain. Age-based discrimination in employment, housing, and health care can negatively affect older adults’ health and well-being. Most older adults cook and eat healthier at home, poll finds. Food insecurity, defined as difficulty in acquiring or accessing food due to a lack of money, affected one in nine of all U.S. households in 2018. Older adults show strong support for dental coverage through Medicare, poll finds. How do older adults use online physician ratings? 2019
Poll finds risky use by some, and opportunities for providers to improve. Few older adults have had telehealth visits with their providers but many would be interested in these visits in specific situations. Many older adults are not fully prepared for emergency situations. Many grandparents keep their medications in easy-to-reach places or in easy-to-open containers which can raise the risk of accidental poisoning or intentional misuse. Many in their 50s and early 60s take supplements or do puzzles in hopes of protecting brain health, but may miss out on effective strategies. Pets help older adults cope with health issues, get active, and connect with others. Many older adults, especially those with health issues, feel lonely and isolated. Pre-Medicare years bring health insurance worries for many. 2018
Half of women over 50 experience incontinence, but most have not talked to a doctor. Older adults show interest in, and some skepticism about, genetic testing. Convenience, cost, and lack of insurance coverage affect eye care decisions for older adults. Three in four older adults support prescription restrictions, but many keep unused pills and do not get information on risks. Half of older adults do not use their health provider’s secure patient communication site. The majority of older adults are satisfied with their sex lives. Medical marijuana gets wary welcome from older adults. More is not always better when it comes to health care according to many older adults. Nursing homes should require flu shots for all staff and patients most older adults say. 2017
Lack of communication puts older adults at risk of drug interactions. There are stresses and rewards for of those who take care of loved ones with dementia. One in three older adults take something to help them sleep, but many are not talking to their doctors. Many adults age 50 to 64 report dental pain, embarrassment, and poor prevention. Older Americans do not get or seek enough help from doctors and pharmacists on drug costs. Search AARP Research
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Three quarters (75%) of adults incorrectly believe that memory loss is a normal and natural part of aging. Social Media
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