What you need to know about the economics of growing old* (*but were afraid to ask) : a provocative reference guide to the economics of aging

XIII, 137 S. : graph. Darst.

22cm

The status of the elderly -- No exit -- Quality over quantity -- The life expectancy of the elderly -- Elderly poverty : higher than you think -- Big spenders and gamblers : the elderly in debt -- The social security system -- Old age and social disability insurance -- Paying your dues -- Reaping the benefits -- Who stands to gain -- Redistribution of wealth -- The freedom to work act -- Growth of beneficiaries vs. contributors -- Dependents : mouths to feed -- Do the old eat the young? -- Exploitation of Mexico -- The economic path to old age -- Welfare histories, welfare futures? -- The implications of welfare dependency -- Retirement savings habits -- Spend, spend, spend -- Debt -- Annuities -- Private pensions -- A bias in 401(k) plans -- Thinking ahead -- Who's the boss? -- Changing social norms -- From housewife to single mother -- Dependent no more : working women -- Living longer -- When the elderly work for pay -- Church ladies becoming Wal-Mart greeters -- Elder work and youth unemployment. - Includes bibliographical references (p. 129-133)