Older adults participating in community health initiatives as part of the Rhode Island Healthy Aging Data Report.
The 2025 Healthy Aging Data Report highlights disparities in health among Rhode Island’s older adults, urging local leaders to take action. With better health outcomes in some towns and critical needs in others, policymakers are called to address chronic diseases and mental health support.
Providence, Rhode Island — The 2025 Rhode Island Healthy Aging Data Report has been published, providing critical insights into the health and wellness of older adults across the state. This annual report serves as a vital tool for health experts and local leaders aiming to make long-term decisions to bolster supporting frameworks for aging communities.
This year’s findings reveal notable disparities in health performance among various towns in Rhode Island. The report highlights that towns such as Providence proper, Newport, and South Kingstown are among the 14 communities that exhibit significantly better health outcomes compared to the state average. Conversely, Central Falls, Coventry, East Providence, North Providence, Johnston, Pawtucket, Warwick, and Woonsocket are identified as areas that require substantial health assistance.
Dr. Beth Dugan, a principal investigator from UMass-Boston, underscores the importance of these findings, suggesting that local leaders can use the report to guide funding decisions and formulate policies aimed at combatting chronic diseases among the aging population.
In light of the report’s revelations, Governor Dan McKee has stressed the necessity for collaboration across local, state, and regional levels in order to effectively address the health issues highlighted. His administration is poised to alleviate financial burdens on older adults by investing in workforce transition programs, enhancing support for in-home care, and funding vital mental health and healthcare services.
This year’s report features a comprehensive breakdown, including 41 community profiles and a total of 172 maps that illustrate varying community rates for essential health indicators. Currently, approximately 25% of Rhode Island’s population is aged 60 and older, with 18% being 65 and older. The statistics indicate that one in three residents in this age bracket is living with anxiety, depression, or diabetes, while 75% are managing hypertension.
The report also reveals differences between genders, noting that women encounter double the rates of men for anxiety and depression in Rhode Island. Additionally, they display higher rates of Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, and PTSD, indicating a critical need for targeted interventions.
Data utilization from this report is deemed crucial, as it plays a significant role in shaping policy changes, engaging community members, and evaluating the effectiveness of health initiatives currently in place. The Rhode Island government and community leaders are expected to analyze these findings meticulously and initiate actionable steps to ameliorate health outcomes for older adults.
For those interested in exploring the data in greater depth, online resources related to the 2025 Healthy Aging Data Report are accessible at HealthyAgingDataReports.org.
News Summary Rhode Island has initiated an online survey to gauge residents' awareness and experiences…
News Summary Craig Clayton, a 75-year-old from Cranston, RI, has pleaded guilty to money laundering…
News Summary Rhode Island has dedicated $27.2 million in low-income housing tax credits for six…
News Summary Integrated Healthcare Partners, a non-profit based in Rhode Island, is facing significant downsizing…
News Summary Rhode Island FC celebrated its inaugural home match at the newly built Centreville…
News Summary The U.S. and China have implemented a bold 90-day trade truce, sparking mixed…