AGE DISCRIMINATION AND POVERTY AMONG OLDER INDIVIDUALS
Increasing unemployment has resulted in more and more seniors struggling to make ends meet. Poverty amongst the elderly is due in part to the rising number of layoffs during the recent economic downturn. Age discrimination cases have been on the rise as well.
Poverty amongst the elderly is a significant problem in the United States today. The AARP reported that nearly 10% of adults aged 65 and older live in poverty. Additionally, nearly 4 million older Americans do not have enough money to pay for their basic needs.
The elderly poverty problem has been compounded by the fact that many seniors are unaware of benefits available to them. Many programs exist which offer assistance for food, rent, and utility bills. Greater outreach will help struggling seniors take advantage of these needed services.
