As we approach the 2024 election, the significance of Pennsylvania’s 50-and-over voter cannot be overstated.

According to AARP Pennsylvania’s recent poll by the bipartisan polling team of Fabrizio-Ward and Impact Research, 90 percent of voters age 50 and older say they are “highly motivated” to vote this election, an increase by 6 points compared to May. Election watchers say they expect older Americans to continues to appear in greater numbers this election cycle than any other age group.

In the 2020 presidential election, 55% of the electorate was over 50 years old. In 2022, our impact increased: voters over 50 made up 62% of the electorate, despite making up around 39% of the total Commonwealth population.

This demographic holds considerable sway over the direction US policy will take, especially on critical issues like health care and Social Security.

Our survey revealed that most Pennsylvania seniors are deeply concerned about their financial security, with 82 percent identifying Social Security as a crucial lifeline.

This sentiment is underscored by the reality that Social Security provides the primary source of income for many older adults in our state. Actually, 61% of respondents indicated that it is or will be a major source of theirs income. Given the threat of benefit cuts and the ongoing debate over the future of Social Security, it is imperative that candidates prioritize this issue in their campaigns.

Caregiving is another pressing concern for voters 50 and older. About 29 percent of those surveyed currently serve as caregivers, supporting aging parents, spouses, or friends.

AARP is mobilizing America’s more than 48 million family caregivers, including 1,490,000 here in Pennsylvania, to fight for common sense solutions that will save them time and money while supporting their caregiving efforts by loved ones.

Family caregivers are the backbone of a broken long-term care system. Family caregivers provide more than $600 billion in unpaid work each year, saving taxpayers billions by keeping loved ones at home and out of expensive nursing homes. Family caregivers in Pennsylvania contribute more than 1.39 billion hours of unpaid care each year, valued at approximately $22 billion.

These caregivers often balance work and personal responsibilities, making it essential that candidates address the challenges they face. Our survey also found that 78% of older voters believe more resources should be allocated to support family caregivers, including caregiving and training programs. The upcoming election is a critical opportunity for candidates to recognize and support the needs of these unsung heroes in our communities.

As we approach Election Day, it is critical for all of us—whether candidates, supporters, or voters—to recognize the strength of the older demographic. We must mobilize to ensure that the issues affecting our communities are at the center of this election. Candidates must engage with constituents, seek their input and demonstrate a commitment to addressing their concerns.

Pennsylvania’s 50-plus vote is a force that can shape our state’s future. As we prepare for the election, let’s support policies that improve the lives of older adults, support caregivers, and protect vital programs like Social Security.