12/31/08 - Worry about being able to afford health care causing ill health
United Press International, upi.com, Chicago, IL
One in 5 adults ages 45 and older are suffering health problems because of financial stress, an AARP survey indicates.
"Right now people are increasingly concerned about their jobs, retirement savings and simply being able to provide for their families and it's taking a major toll on their health," Bob Gallo, AARP Illinois senior state director, said in a statement. "It's a harsh irony that worrying about being able to afford healthcare is actually causing health problems." ...
The survey also reveals that 16 percent say they are not confident they will be able to afford healthcare in the coming year, 20 percent of people age 45 and older reported health problems due to financial stress and 21 percent have cut back on other expenses in order to afford their medical care. ...
