A new study that is the first of its kind in Connecticut, revealed just how much senior citizens across the state are struggling in today?s economy.
The Elder Economic Security Standard Index for Connecticut announced its results on Monday, and is meant to help policy makers see exactly how elders are getting by.
Depending on housing and health, the study found that single elders need between $19,000 and $52,000 for basic living costs today.
However, the study found the average Social Security benefits fall far below that. According to the study, single women in Connecticut received an average of only $13,000 in benefits last year.
The Connecticut Commissions on Aging says this study is crucial as it looks at new policies because Connecticut is the seventh oldest state, with 65 percent of the population expected to be over 65 by 2030.