Aging in America News

| Interview with Jane Tavares, LeadingAge LTSS Center at UMass Boston

Harry Margolis and Tavares discuss a study conducted in partnership with the National Council on Aging (NCOA) that highlights the financial vulnerability of older adults. Key findings include that 80% of older households lack the resources to handle major financial shocks and the stark mortality gap between wealth quintiles. The conversation explores the methodologies of the study, striking data points, and recommendations for both public policy and individual planning to address these challenges. Recommendations include planning for long-term care in one’s 50s, checking eligibility for benefit programs, and policy-level changes like streamlining benefit enrollment and strengthening Medicaid services.