1. Senior Citizens Living in Poverty

Definition: This indicator represents the percent of citizens aged 65 and over who meet the poverty thresholds as updated annually by the U.S. Census Bureau.  These poverty thresholds are used for statistical purposes.  Another set of poverty thresholds found in poverty guidelines developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services are used primarily for administrative purposes such as determining eligibility for certain federal programs.

Significance:  As people grow older, they typically leave the workforce and in most cases, their incomes decline.  Poverty or low income can become a serious concern.  Persons who are 65 and older and do not have adequate health insurance may have to choose between prescription medicines and food or housing.  As the need for living assistance increases, their expenses may also increase.

Historical/Trend Analysis, Percentage of Senior Citizens Living in Poverty

Data reflects South Carolina (SC), United States (US), and the southeast (SE).  The southeast region consists of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2002-2006 Data 

Selected State Rankings, 2006 (“1” represents state with highest percentage of senior citizens with incomes below the poverty level. Rankings reflect a standard competition ranking method that accounts for ties that result in two or more states having the same rank.)

Rev. 11.20.2007