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Healthcare Costs & Caregiving

As both research and people’s health conditions change over time, care must be continually reevaluated and updated. Substantial social science, medical, and gerontological research show that social and economic disadvantages accumulate over people’s lifetimes, along lines of race, gender, and socioeconomic status. Disparities in access to healthcare and social services reinforce and exacerbate these disadvantages. Despite progress in closing gaps in educational status, household income, and healthcare coverage, substantial racial/ethnic health and mortality inequalities persist. Evidence suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated aging and early retirement, requiring further study. Disparities and gaps in elder care also require attention, as do the caregivers and families who provide care for elders.