Women and Aging: Navigating Challenges, Empowering Futures

Aging is a universal journey, but it brings unique challenges and considerations for women. This blog, the first in a series by Hurley Elder Care Law, will explore the varied impact of aging on women and provide insights to help prepare for the road ahead.

What’s the gender pay gap?

Women’s economic security often bears the brunt of systemic inequities, including salary disparities that continue throughout their careers. On average, women earn 84 cents for every dollar earned by men, a gap that widens for minority women. Over a lifetime, this “pay gap” leads to reduced retirement savings, increasing financial vulnerability in later years.

The impact of being a caregiver

Caregiving increases these challenges. Women comprise two-thirds of family caregivers, often balancing this unpaid labor with professional responsibilities. This “motherhood penalty” results in lost wages, slower career progression, and diminished Social Security benefits. Minority women face additional hurdles, such as systemic health disparities and limited access to resources, worsening financial and emotional strain.

Gray Divorce

Aging also intersects with evolving family dynamics. “Gray divorce” rates have doubled since 1990 for those over 55, leaving many women to navigate singlehood later in life, often without equitable financial settlements. Meanwhile, healthcare demands grow—women live longer than men but are more likely to experience chronic illnesses, requiring comprehensive and costly care.

Hurley Elder Care Law can help

Understanding these realities is the first step toward proactive planning. Future posts in this series will delve deeper into these topics, offering strategies to address the challenges of aging. At Hurley Elder Care Law, we are committed to empowering women with the tools and resources needed to navigate aging with confidence and dignity. Call our office today at 404-843-0121 to schedule a meeting. Our experienced elder law attorneys will help guide you toward a smoother future.