A recent iteration of the AARP Florida Vital Voices survey, released as part of the organization's triennial state study, highlights a growing sense of unease among Floridians over 45 years old. These individuals are voicing mounting concerns about their financial future, healthcare costs, and housing stability.
The report emphasizes that in a state with a rapidly aging population, economic uncertainty has become a constant worry for millions of residents.
Jeff Johnson, the state director for AARP Florida—a non-partisan organization committed to empowering Americans over 50—summed up the findings succinctly: “This survey makes it clear: Floridians aged 45 and older are profoundly worried about their financial future.”
Johnson pointed out that rising living costs, apprehensions about the future of Social Security, and the fate of Medicare are wearing down the peace of mind of those who have spent decades planning for a stable retirement.
“Floridians deserve to age with dignity, stability, and the financial security they have earned,” he asserted.
Widespread Economic Concerns
The study's data shows overwhelming agreement on the gravity of these concerns.
A staggering 93% of respondents rated having sufficient retirement income and maintaining adequate Social Security benefits as “extremely” or “very important.” Three out of four expressed anxiety about the program's sustainability and the potential lack of funds to meet full payments in the future.
These worries are especially significant in a state where nearly one out of every five residents currently receives Social Security benefits, and about half rely on them for more than half of their monthly income.
Healthcare and Economic Pressures
The survey also indicates that healthcare worries are escalating. Rising prescription drug prices and uncertainties about Medicare's long-term stability are viewed as direct threats to the autonomy and well-being of older adults.
These anxieties are part of a broader economic context: persistent inflation, climbing electricity bills, and increasing transportation costs are particularly challenging for those living on fixed budgets.
Housing Affordability Crisis
However, the most significant blow is related to housing. The combination of property taxes, soaring rents, and insurance premiums exceeding $4,000 annually in many areas has turned the search for housing stability into a daily struggle.
Many survey participants reported feeling trapped between unaffordable costs and the inability to relocate without sacrificing their lifestyle or family networks.
Affordability is no longer an abstract issue; it is a daily challenge that threatens the ability of thousands of seniors to remain in their communities.
Natural Disasters and Vulnerability
Adding to the complexity is a heightened vulnerability to natural disasters. Although 73% of respondents claim to have an emergency plan, confidence in a speedy recovery after a hurricane is low.
Only one in four feels very secure in their ability to recover financially, while more than a third admits to having little or no confidence. Among those with homeowners insurance, 80% report having hurricane deductibles, and nearly half fear they cannot afford them if a storm hits their area.
The situation is even more dire for those without policies: three-quarters reveal that, even if they wanted to, they cannot afford them.
AARP Florida's Legislative Agenda
Taken together, these factors are shaping AARP Florida's agenda for the 2026 legislative session.
The organization plans to prioritize the protection of Social Security and Medicare, strengthen support for family caregivers, and promote initiatives to make cities and communities across the state more livable for older adults.
The goal, they emphasize, is not merely to enhance comfort but to ensure that Floridians can maintain their independence and live with financial peace of mind in their later years.
“The issues brought to us are not abstract,” Johnson reiterated. “These are real people who have worked all their lives and simply want to know they will be okay in the years ahead.”
Key Concerns for Florida's Aging Population
What are the main financial concerns for older Floridians?
Older Floridians are primarily concerned about their financial future, the cost of healthcare, and housing stability. Rising living expenses and uncertainties about Social Security and Medicare are key factors.
How does housing affordability affect Florida's seniors?
Housing affordability is a pressing issue, with high property taxes, increasing rents, and costly insurance premiums making it difficult for seniors to maintain housing stability without compromising their lifestyle or family networks.
What role does AARP Florida play in addressing these issues?
AARP Florida is focusing on protecting Social Security and Medicare, supporting family caregivers, and promoting initiatives to make communities more livable for seniors as part of their 2026 legislative agenda.