Over Age Sixty-Five

Definition

Over Age Sixty-Five refers to the demographic group of individuals who are 65 years old or older. This term is significant in the context of social welfare and economic policy, particularly during the era of the New Deal, as it highlights the growing need for support and assistance for elderly citizens who often faced poverty and health issues. The New Deal introduced various programs aimed at providing relief and security to this age group, reshaping how society viewed aging and social responsibility.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The New Deal introduced the Social Security Act in 1935, which established a system to provide financial benefits to those over age sixty-five.
2. Prior to the New Deal, many elderly individuals lived in poverty due to a lack of retirement savings and inadequate support systems.
3. Programs like the WPA also employed older Americans, helping them gain income while contributing to community projects.
4. The establishment of Medicare in 1965 further expanded healthcare access for those over sixty-five, building on New Deal foundations.
5. The focus on this age group during the New Deal period marked a significant shift in how society addressed aging and economic security.

Review Questions

• How did the introduction of the Social Security Act impact individuals over age sixty-five during the New Deal?
  • The Social Security Act significantly improved the financial situation of individuals over age sixty-five by providing them with regular income through old-age pensions. This act recognized the need for economic support for the elderly, who often faced poverty and instability. By establishing a safety net, it transformed societal views on aging and created expectations for government responsibility in ensuring the welfare of senior citizens.
• In what ways did programs like the WPA specifically benefit those over age sixty-five?
  • The WPA offered job opportunities for many unemployed Americans, including those over age sixty-five, allowing them to earn a living while contributing to public projects. This not only provided much-needed income but also helped combat feelings of isolation and uselessness among older adults. By engaging them in meaningful work, the WPA fostered a sense of purpose and community involvement for seniors during a time when many were struggling.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of New Deal policies on elderly poverty and healthcare for those over age sixty-five.
  • New Deal policies laid the groundwork for addressing elderly poverty and healthcare needs through initiatives like Social Security and later Medicare. These programs significantly reduced poverty rates among seniors and improved their access to healthcare services. Over time, this shift has influenced subsequent legislation aimed at supporting older adults, reflecting a broader societal commitment to ensuring their well-being. The focus on this demographic has evolved into a critical aspect of American social policy today.

Related terms

Social Security Act:

A landmark piece of legislation enacted in 1935 that established a social insurance program to provide financial support for the elderly, unemployed, and disabled.

WPA (Works Progress Administration): A New Deal agency that provided jobs for millions of unemployed Americans, including older individuals, through public works projects.

Elderly Poverty: A term that describes the economic challenges faced by individuals aged 65 and older, often exacerbated by limited income and inadequate savings.