Why? Because, as of the age of about 45, the single female population overtakes that of single men (U.S. Census). This means that lots of women are alone, that they must pay for their own health care, food and rent. As of 2010, there were 5,762,000 single women (45-64 year olds) to 5,582,000 men (45-64 year olds) in the U.S. That was not all that different.
But, as we all know, women live longer than men. As of 2010, there were 8,121,000 single women 65 years and older to just 3,198,000 of these older single men. So you can see that age makes a difference!!!!
As Olympia Snowe said in a recent article in the Washington Post
“Women also make up 57 percent of Social Security recipients and a stunning 68 percent of those 85 or older. The simple truth is that the life expectancy of women exceeds that of men by approximately five years, on average, so many women will depend on these programs longer.”
She also said (and referenced the National Women’s Law Center website on the Importance of Medicare for Women)
“In 2009, for instance, 56 percent of Medicare recipients were female, and 43 percent of women enrolled in Medicare were living at or near poverty, compared with 32 percent of men.”
Women live longer and have to be careful of their money! They do not have as many life-shortening diseases as men, so they have more chronic conditions. Therefore they need robust Medicare support, one that emphasizes prevention, and one they know will sustain throughout their long lives. I am sure you already know someone who is missing medication because of being short of money.
So vote this November for the ticket that is going to work toward sustaining government programs in a way that will not leave you short of money for insurance, doctors or prescriptions. Remember, 45 becomes 55, 65, 75 and 85 – you don’t stay young (in body) forever!
And what about social security? Well, it’s pretty much a parallel problem. Women need help as (lots of) time goes by. Social security is limited and tied to the increase in cost of living (according to the weird governmental calculations). If social security goes up 0.2% – but rent and food go up a whole 5%, it is tricky. That’s why growing your own food where possible is a good option. But not many people can do this. A 401K program is not a good option for those who are not financial experts. So consider carefully!!! Think of your neighbors and friends…
And VOTE!