RI Healthy Aging report released; Providence, Newport among healthiest communities
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The RI Healthy Aging Data report was just released this week and is now available.
Each year, health experts review and compile a wealth of information state and local leaders use to make long-term decisions to support our aging communities.
This year’s report points to the towns performing significantly better and worse than the state average.
Providence proper, Newport, and South Kingstown are among the 14 with the best health performance.
Those that need the most health assistance, based on the report, are Central Falls, Coventry, East Providence, North Providence, Johnston, Pawtucket, Warwick and Woonsocket.
ABC6 spoke with the report’s principal investigator, Dr. Beth Dugan from UMass-Boston about the findings, and she said she hopes they’ll help local leaders implement funding and policy to combat chronic diseases and ultimately increase overall quality of life.
“The hope is that by building these more age friendly communities, and these longevity friendly communities, our longevity can be expanded,” said Dugan.
Governor Dan McKee also offered a message in regard to the findings, saying in part, “The report highlights the necessity of collaboration across local, state and regional levels. We are committed to easing the financial burden on Rhode Island’s older adults by investing in workforce transition programs, increasing support for in-home care, and funding mental health and healthcare services.”
