Michigan Gets a Failing Grade on Living Conditions for Older Adults

The outlook is grim for older adults living in Michigan. Our state ranks near the bottom for living conditions for senior citizens.

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Only Nevada posted a worse score, according to the survey conducted by Seniorly.

Why is Michigan's Score So Low?

Michigan ranked as the second-worst state in the US in mental health among senior citizens, third-worst in social security benefits, and comes in at #42 with regard to the number of seniors who are living alone.

There is one bright spot, however. Michigan's seniors seem to be in respectable physical health, ranking somewhere in the middle.

There is Some Good News for Seniors

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has shortened Americans' life expectancy, many problems typically associated with older people have eased over the last ten years. Death rates from diseases like COPD, cancer, and heart disease have all dropped.

Seniorly also reports that the average Social Security check has increased for seniors, even after accounting for inflation. Fewer older Americans are living alone and finding it difficult to obtain Internet access, two factors that can contribute to a feeling of isolation.

Here Are Some More Key Findings From the Study Conducted by Seniorly:

• Washington was the top state overall when it comes to providing a better life for older adults, while North Dakota was second, and Massachusetts was third. Nevada had the worst score, followed by Michigan and Utah.
• D.C. had the biggest average decline in death rates from causes of death that disproportionately affect older adults, while Utah had the biggest average increase.
• Vermont had a 26 percent decrease in the suicide rate among older adults since 2011, while Montana had a 72 percent increase in the rate.

To see more about how the data was crunched, click on this website.