Financial Status Creates A 9-Year Life Expectancy Gap Among Seniors

New research shows poor older Americans die nearly nine years earlier than wealthy seniors. The National Council On Aging studied 10,000 households from 2018 to 2022. One researcher called the findings “really shocking.” Death rates among the poorest 60% of seniors were nearly double those of the wealthiest 20%. Middle-income households earning $60,000 saw 15% die during the study period, compared to 11% among those earning $120,000. Researchers blame limited healthcare access, unaffordable medical costs, and financial stress. Senior poverty has reached 15% – the highest of any age group. About 80% of Americans over 60 have few or no financial assets. (Story URL)