Retirement and Disability Researchers Reconvene in DC

After four years of COVID-imposed Zoom meetings, retirement and disability researchers from around the country will meet again in Washington, DC.

The theme running through much of the research they will present at the 2024 meeting involves the economic and financial security of various underserved communities.

The three-day event, which starts on Wednesday, Aug. 7, will also return to its usual meeting place: the National Press Club in Washington.

The agenda and registration information are posted online.

Researchers will discuss their latest studies – most of which are funded by the U.S. Social Security Administration – on topics ranging from wealth inequality in racially segregated Chicago to the particular needs of rural communities, women, older LGBTQ+ workers and retirees, and people with disabilities.

One paper, “The Color of Wealth in Chicago,” tackles a nuanced understanding of the barriers to wealth that face people of color – and not just the usual comparisons with White people but also among communities of color. For example, immigrant history, a record of incarceration, or family dynamics can be important determinants of how different groups of people of color are faring financially.

Rural residents participate in government programs at lower rates than city dwellers. Another study will identify communications barriers and the strategies that would be more effective in getting benefits to underserved rural areas and in improving participation in these programs generally.

Another pressing policy concern is caring for the nation’s rapidly aging U.S. population. Researchers will look at the long-term care and support services that are preferred by caregivers of different races and ethnicities.

Older workers and retirees are a perennial subject of Social Security-funded research. This year’s studies will include a focus on whether remote work has improved employment options for older people with disabilities, why old-age poverty persists, and how older people fit into multigenerational living arrangements.

A complete list of papers and registration information is available.

The studies described herein were derived from research activities performed pursuant to grants from the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) funded as part of the Retirement and Disability Research Consortium.  The opinions and conclusions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not represent the opinions or policy of SSA, any agency of the federal government, or Boston College. Neither the United States Government nor any agency thereof, nor any of their employees, make any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of the contents of this report.  Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply endorsement, recommendation or favoring by the United States Government or any agency thereof.