Report: R.I. 15th in state well-being rankings

RHODE ISLAND ranked 15th highest in the Gallup-Healthways State of American Well-Being: State Well-Being Rankings for Older Americans. / COURTESY GALLUP
RHODE ISLAND ranked 15th highest in the Gallup-Healthways State of American Well-Being: State Well-Being Rankings for Older Americans. / COURTESY GALLUP

PROVIDENCE – Rhode Island ranked 15th best in state well-being rankings for older Americans.
Hawaii topped the list for the second year, while West Virginia again ranked last in Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index that examines the well-being of Americans aged 55 and older.
Arizona and New Hampshire rounded out the top three states for highest levels of well-being.
The Ocean State ranked second-highest among the New England states. Connecticut ranked 19th; Maine, 20th; Massachusetts, 32nd; and Vermont, 45th.
Released Tuesday, the report is based on self-reported data from 115,572 interviews with individuals 55 and older, reflecting 2015 and first quarter 2016 data focusing on five elements of well-being: purpose, social, financial, community and physical.
Arizona leads the nation for social well-being for older Americans, while North Dakota leads in financial well-being.
Gallup and Healthways research revealed that well-being improves with age, and adults 55 and older have higher well-being than the rest of the population across all five elements.

The report noted that older Americans have better access to health care compared with those under 55 and a greater likelihood of having health insurance and a personal doctor. Older Americans also eat more fresh produce, smoke less and their worry and stress levels substantially decrease starting at age 65.
Older Americans exercise less and have higher cholesterol, however, the report said.

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