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Elders living on the edge -- When basic needs exceed income in Colorado

Download the full policy brief
Download the full Elder Index report

Colorado’s low-income elders face financial challenges that threaten their economic security and the health of their communities. Elders face increasing expenses while their fixed incomes are eroded by weaknesses within the economy. When income falls short of needs, the potential impact of public support programs is often undermined by underfunding, understaffing and low income and asset eligibility limits which prevent saving. As a result, financial stability eludes many Colorado seniors.

Policy recommendations

Use the Colorado Elder Index and the Colorado Self-Sufficiency Standard.
Both tools can be used to evaluate existing policies and programs and develop new strategies that address the needs of the aging workforce and older adults.

Defend retirement income and assets.
Elder economic security is dependent upon the savings and investments workers can build at earlier stages in employment.

Support aging in place programs.
Affordable housing, Medicaid Aged and Disabled Waivers, housing and utility assistance, home and community-based long-term care services and financial and other supports for caregivers all ensure a quality of life for elders that has been earned while they were contributing to the general economy.

Re-establish lifelong learning and job skills training.
Employment is no longer based on a static set of skills and education, and does not end with the acquisition of a single certificate or degree.

Contact: Tracey Stewart
Family Economic Security Program manager
303-573-5669, ext. 314

Released July 7, 2011

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