WASHINGTON, May 1, 2000 -- It's a fact: The overwhelming majority (82%) of mid-life and older Americans want to remain living independently in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. But according to a new AARP survey released today, nearly one in four (23%) predict that either they or someone they live with will have difficulty getting around in the home within the next five years.

"These are real concerns to a growing number of Americans," said AARP Board Member Doug Holbrook. "More and more Baby Boomers are having to address the difficulties facing their elderly parents. They're also starting to think ahead, and may be wondering how well their own homes will meet their needs as they themselves grow older."

The new survey, called "Fixing To Stay," found that seven in ten (70%) of those who are able to make changes to their homes have made at least one modification to make it easier for them to get around. Two-thirds (67%) of those who have made home modifications believe those actions will allow them to live in their homes longer than they would have been able otherwise - most for another ten years or more.

The survey was released as part of ARRP's Independent Living Week, a week-long series of volunteer events to help older people live in their homes longer. In 2000, AARP's Independent Living Week is May 1-7. This year, the focus of these activities is making simple changes to stay in charge. AARP Volunteers around the country will sponsor events to educate homeowners on how they can make their homes safer and more livable - not just for older people, but for everyone.

More than 1000 AARP Independent Living Week activities will take place in all 50 states. For example, In Jackson, Mississippi, AARP will partner with a local hardware store in hosting a Home Modification Expo, and will demonstrate home modification techniques. In Philadelphia, volunteers will stage a "Walk for Independence" to the top of the stairs at the Liberty Bell. In Portland, Maine, AARP will partner with a local fire department to conduct home safety inspections. In Kalamazoo, Michigan, AARP will visit a home to install porch treads, grab bars, and will make other changes to make the home safer for its elderly owner.

"Remaining in the home is a challenge for many older Americans," said Ava Baker, director of AARP's National Initiatives. "Our activities around the country will show people that by making simple home modifications, we can improve safety for everyone and help our older friends, neighbors and family members remain living independently longer. That's the primary focus of AARP's Independent Living Week, and that is our reason for releasing this survey today."

The survey is the fifth in a series of AARP senior housing studies. Based on telephone interviews of 2,000 persons aged 45 and over, it examines the opinions and behavior of mid-life and older Americans regarding their current and future housing situations. It also shows the extent to which people in this age group have made home modifications to improve the safety and convenience of their homes, and to enable them to remain living independently in their homes as they age. Among the survey's other key findings:

• Over one-fourth of respondents (27%) expressed concerns that they would find it difficult to provide care for an older parent or relative in the home; would have problems using features such as stairs or bathtubs (29%); or would be forced into a nursing home because of trouble getting around in their own home (31%).
• Eighty-five percent (85%) of those polled said they have already made simple changes to their homes, such as placing non-skid strips in bathtubs or replacing low-wattage light bulbs with higher wattage bulbs to increase visibility.
• The reasons most often cited by respondents for not making home modifications were the inability to make the changes themselves (37%), and not being able to afford the modifications (37%).

"Most people want to continue living independently in their homes for as long as possible," said Ada-Helen Bayer, acting Associate Director of AARP's Research Group. "But for many older people, the typical home can quickly become a difficult and dangerous obstacle course. Considering that one in four Americans believe that they or a relative will have difficulty getting around their home within the next five years, this becomes a serious issue - not only for older people, but also for those who care for them."

AARP is the nation's leading organization for people 50 and older. It serves their needs and interests through information and education, advocacy, and community services which are provided by a network of local chapters and experienced volunteers throughout the country. The organization also offers members a wide range of special benefits and services, including Modern Maturity magazine and the monthly Bulletin.