The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

State News

June 3, 2010

Study finds West Virginia seniors are beset by basic living expenses

Associated Press

CHARLESTON — A new report highlights an economic crisis facing West Virginia’s large senior population.

The study released Wednesday finds more than one in 10 residents age 65 or older at or below the federal poverty line.

One-fourth rely entirely on Social Security. Most are women.

The Elder Economic Security Initiative report found that widely ranging housing costs play a major role in whether seniors meet their basic living expenses.

Eastern Panhandle residents, for instance, face mortgage payments or rent nearly double that found in southern coalfield counties.

Supplemental prescription drug and health coverage policies are also an issue.

Several groups contributed to the report, including the University of Massachusetts’ Gerontology Institute.

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