SOCIAL GERONTOLOGY TODAY

An Introduction

Chapter 11: Economic Security, Public policy and Politics - Study Questions

1. Discuss the benefits of privatizing Social Security. What ideological premises are behind each perspective? Who is likely to benefit most from privatization? From maintaining the current system?

2. If the age for full benefits from Social Security is raised to 70, what impact do you think this will have on older workers and their economic position? Explain.

3. How would your parents' retirement be affected if Social Security were repealed? How do you think your own future retirement income would be affected?

4. Should Social Security be means-tested? Explain the risks and benefits.

5. Discuss the statement: "Should workers who need to take leave from their jobs for documented medical reasons, such as illness or to care for a disabled relative, be paid during their absence?" If so, whose responsibility is it to pay the worker--the government through a federally mandated program or the employer? If the worker is not paid, how should she or he meet expenses?

6. If Medicare will run out of money shortly, what policies would you advocate to ensure a more stable funding base? Would you limit eligibility, and if so, using what standards or criteria?

7. Should age or need be the basis for receipt of services such as those provided by the Older Americans Act and Medicare?

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