Social Security cuts and the toll on longevity

This study examines how a 20th-century Social Security policy cut retirement benefits for certain birth cohorts, resulting in reduced income and shorter lifespans. Using linked census and death records, research found that individuals affected by the benefit reductions lived about one month less on average—with the biggest impacts seen among low-income and less-educated groups. Despite some working longer to make up lost income, the net effect was a significant drop in total income and life expectancy, especially after age 80. The findings highlight the crucial role that stable retirement income plays in supporting longevity among older adults.