The Economic Status of the Aged

The economic status of the aged is a pressing issue that has emerged as a side effect of social progress. Advances in medicine, public health, and urbanization have led to an increase in life expectancy, with more individuals living to the age of 65 and beyond. However, this progress has created new challenges, such as the lack of opportunities for older workers in a highly mechanized economy and the difficulties faced by retired individuals in urban settings. These challenges have contributed to a new form of poverty among the elderly, despite overall societal wealth. In 1955, approximately 14 million people were aged 65 or older, marking the rise of a significant social class with unique needs and demands. A national survey conducted in 1952 by the Bureau of the Census sought to gather specific information about the economic status of this group, focusing on factors like income, expenses, and financial resources. This study, based on interviews with 3,600 men and women aged 65 and over, was designed to better understand the economic realities faced by older Americans and to inform the development of social policies. The findings of the survey explore key questions, such as why many older individuals are no longer in the labor force and whether they can return to work. Additionally, the survey delves into the financial conditions of the elderly, examining the sources of their income, the challenges they face when income is insufficient, and whether they have any significant financial resources to fall back on. Ultimately, the report provides a snapshot of the economic status of the elderly in 1952, offering valuable insights into the scope of the problem and suggesting areas for further research and policy development. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1957.