This increase in disability rates with age reflects the underlying changes in health conditions as people
grow older. As we age, we become more susceptible to illnesses and conditions that can lead to
disability. For example, stroke and dementia are much more common in older adults and can significantly
impair a person’s ability to work and live independently. Ensuring the availability of SSDI to address
these age-related conditions is vital in protecting older workers from financial hardship due to unforeseen
medical conditions.
If SSDI were not available, older workers would face even greater challenges maintaining their financial
independence.