Aging With Disabilities in America:
Experiences, Needs, and New Realities
Published July 6, 2026
In the United States, about 1 in 4 adults 50-plus are living with a disability. This group of older adults often has unique needs and challenges, especially when accessing health care, maintaining independence and arranging needed accommodations. These experiences can also shape resilience, strengths and a commitment to helping others with accessibility challenges.
Some older adults are experiencing disabilities for the first time, particularly with conditions that commonly occur with aging. Others have had these conditions for decades or their entire lives. The diverse stories of older Americans with disabilities matter. Drawing from multiple data sources, this digital experience explores the perceptions, needs, strengths and experiences of people 50-plus with disabilities as they age.
For more information about the content of this digital experience, please contact Cassandra Burton, AARP Research (ccantave@aarp.org). For media inquiries, please contact media@aarp.org. The design was executed by Shen Lee, AARP Research (shlee@aarp.org).
Note: Photos of individuals used for quotes in this digital experience are stock images and not actual photos of the individuals quoted.