Sociology Chapter 10-5 Inequality In America’s Elderly Population Economics for elderly is hard to measure. –Gov’t. determines that the elderly need less $ than younger Americans. –Poverty rate is higher than what’s reported. “Traditionally the poverty rate for people 65 and over is 10%... The National Academy of Science estimates it at 18.7% using a new formula.” Tom Johansmeyer

Less Poor Elderly Today

The Hidden Poor Older people living in institutions. Older people living with relatives.

Multiple Factors Elderly who are part of a racial or ethnic minority have even higher poverty rate. Elderly women are of the poorest groups. - Single women are even worse off.

The Elderly and Politics Elderly people are the most active voters in the U.S.

Political Power? America’s elderly are too diverse to maintain political power. Gray Power lacks unity. May form interest groups: Groups that attempt to influence politicians. –AARP, Gray Panthers