New Report Highlights Disproportionate Economic Insecurity for Older Women

A recent report from the Gerontology Institute at the University of Massachusetts Boston highlights that older women, particularly those living alone, face a higher risk of economic insecurity. Nationally, 50% of older women living alone have annual incomes below the Elder Index, a measure of the cost of living for older adults, compared to 42% of older men in the same situation. Economic insecurity means they can’t afford housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other essentials without assistance. The report’s lead author, Jan Mutchler, suggests addressing gender disparities in work histories and earnings through policies such as pay equity, affordable childcare, family leave, and increased Social Security benefits for those aged 85 and older. Couples, particularly same-sex couples, have better economic security, with 22% of older women in same-sex couples experiencing economic insecurity compared to 20% of older opposite-sex couples and 18% of older men in same-sex couples. Read more…