What question did this study set out to answer?

The research aims to estimate racial and ethnic disparities in well-being among older Americans.

February 12, 2026DemographyOpen Access

Beyond Income: Health, Wealth, and Racial Welfare Gaps Among Older Americans

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Analysis estimates disparities in well-being among older Americans, suggesting early intervention is critical for closing gaps.

The research aims to estimate racial and ethnic disparities in well-being among older Americans.
Used longitudinal data to assess well-being indicators
Employed an expected utility framework
Conducted decomposition exercises for welfare gaps
Performed counterfactual simulations on health risk factors
Identified greater racial and ethnic inequality than other metrics suggest
Found initial conditions at age 60 largely determine welfare gaps
Eliminating health risks marginally reduces overall welfare disparities
Targeted policies earlier in life may be more effective

Chin et al. (2026) studied this question.

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