New survey shows Maine residents, regardless of age, don’t see aging as a personal barrier

AARP research examines how aging is viewed in the state of Maine

Despite believing older adults are devalued in society, Maine adults of all ages don’t see aging as a barrier, according to new AARP research examining how aging is viewed in the state.

Engagement seems to factor into the optimism. When asked about their views on aging, half of respondents among all three age groups – 18 to 54, 55 to 65, and 65-plus – said as they age, they are becoming more involved in helping others and find that their life offers more possibilities. Mainers generally subscribe to the adage, “With age comes wisdom.” Nearly nine in ten Mainers believe wisdom does indeed come with age, and an overwhelming majority see value in passing it on, with 93 percent placing importance on sharing one’s unique experiences with younger people.

Some 70 percent agree the likelihood of older adults wanting to learn new things increases with age. Cultivating social connections and personal friendships continues with advancing age. The 65-plus age group was most likely to agree that friends are becoming a bigger part of their lives as they grow older.

Beyond the positive feedback, most Mainers think older adults become less visible (64 percent) and are treated with less respect (54 percent). Mainers aged 55-plus believe younger people have more advantages in society, 70 percent note we live in a youth-oriented society and 69 percent say employers prefer younger workers over older workers.

Another 57 percent agree older workers are excluded from employment or promotion opportunities. Sixty-six percent believe age discrimination exists in the workplace, and most point out age bias begins in your 50s and 60s.

Further, Mainers believe the fear of getting old is very real for Americans. Of those surveyed, 75 percent agree Americans are afraid of getting old and 72 percent believe advertising and media negatively impact how Americans view aging. Ninety-one percent think older adults are more likely to become targets of fraud or scams and 72 percent agree older adults have trouble keeping up with technology. In terms of the financial implications of growing old, 57 percent believe older adults rely on Social Security and Medicare to cover their needs and 49 percent agree older adults have difficulty living in their own home.

While half of those surveyed were optimistic about aging, there also exists a real fear in growing old. Education is needed to dispel the myths about aging, as well as to put an end to workforce age bias and stereotyping. Although we may live in a youth-oriented society, steps need to be taken to increase the value placed on older adults.

“AARP Maine is dedicated to improving the lives of Mainers aged 50 and older, as well as their families,” said Noël Bonam, AARP Maine State Director. “Through state-specific surveys such as this, we gain valuable insights into the needs and desires of older adults in Maine. Our research bolsters our efforts to advocate for fair utility rates, fight elder fraud, seek support for Maine’s 166,000 family caregivers and provide resources on health and retirement security.” AARP Maine also offers a variety of wellness classes, social programs, educational opportunities, and initiatives to advance age-friendly community enhancements.

The online and phone survey of Maine residents age 18 and older was conducted from October 3 to November 2, 2023. Data were weighted by age, gender, and education to reflect Maine’s 18 and older population.

To learn more about AARP and its work in Maine, visit www.aarp.org/me and follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram @aarpmaine.