Definition
The percentage of individuals within specific age groups (e.g., children under 18, working-age adults 18-64, seniors 65+) whose income falls below the poverty threshold.
Why It Matters
Reveals how economic hardship disproportionately affects different stages of life. Understanding age-specific poverty highlights vulnerable populations (e.g., child poverty, senior poverty) and informs targeted interventions.
Specific Relevance for Professionals:
Marketers
Helps identify markets with significant numbers of low-income individuals in particular age groups, guiding the development of products and services tailored to their unique needs and affordability (e.g., educational resources for low-income youth, affordable healthcare for low-income seniors).
Researchers
Essential for studying age-specific economic disparities, the effectiveness of social programs aimed at particular age cohorts (e.g., Social Security, childcare subsidies), and how poverty impacts individuals at different life stages.
Consultants
Useful for advising clients on social impact strategies for specific age demographics (e.g., non-profits focusing on youth development or elder care), or assessing market segments with age-related economic vulnerabilities.
Public Policy Workers
Critical for designing targeted social assistance programs, allocating resources for schools and children's services, planning senior support systems, and developing workforce initiatives that address poverty among working-age adults.
