The National Council on Aging reports over 17 million seniors are economically insecure, living on incomes below 200% of the federal poverty level, roughly $30,000 annually. This translates to a monthly budget of about $2,500, barely exceeding the median $2,329 monthly mortgage payment. Such tight finances are a primary indicator of lower-class retirement status. 67% of seniors rely on Social Security for over half their income, yet the average check of $2,071 falls short of covering typical $1,300 monthly healthcare costs. 7% of retirees reenter the workforce, often due to insufficient savings, while 20% of Americans over 50 have no retirement savings at all, highlighting a systemic financial vulnerability.