Getting Older and Getting By with SSI
2024
Getting Older and Getting By with SSI
Sample size: 28
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Callie Freitag
Primary Institution: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Hypothesis
What are the economic lives of low-income older adults receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Conclusion
Low-income older adults often rely on SSI and other resources to manage their finances but struggle with unexpected expenses.
Supporting Evidence
- SSI provides a maximum of $943 per month in 2024.
- Strict income and asset limits may reduce SSI's effectiveness in alleviating poverty.
- Many respondents have a history of precarious employment and persistent poverty.
Takeaway
Older people who don't have much money often get help from SSI, but they still find it hard to pay for big surprises.
Methodology
The study uses qualitative interview data from the American Voices Project to analyze the experiences of low-income older adults.
Limitations
The study is based on a small sample size and may not represent all low-income older adults.
Participant Demographics
Low-income adults aged 50 years and older.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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