The Elder Index and the Massachusetts Elder Economic Security Initiative

The Massachusetts Elder Economic Security Initiative (Initiative) offers concrete tools to shape public policies and programs to promote the economic well-being of elders. The Massachusetts Initiative is a partnership between state and national organizations.  The Massachusetts Association of Older Americans, Inc. (MAOA) is the lead state partner and collaborates with other organizations on the Initiative in Massachusetts .

The Initiative uses the Elder Economic Security Standard™ Index (Elder Index) to reveal the economic vulnerability of older adults on a county-by-county basis. The Gerontology Institute at the University of Massachusetts Boston and Wider Opportunities for Women (WOW) developed the Elder Index with the financial support of the Boston Foundation. 

The Elder Index measures the income that Massachusetts’ seniors need to maintain independence and meet basic living expenses. Elder Index values vary based on household size, geographic area, housing arrangements and heath status. The Elder Index uses an income measure that reflects the actual expenses for basic needs of older adults, in contrast to the outdated and outmoded federal poverty level, which is a measure of abject poverty and deprivation.

See the Elder Index full report and a County Comparison by Cost chart for more information.

To find out more or request a presentation on the Elder Economic Security Initiative in your community contact the Massachusetts Association of Older Americans, Inc. at: 617-426-0804