The American Association of Retired Persons report says only 25 percent of people in their 50s are secure for retirement. Ninety percent of them are married. Sixty percent are unmarried and 60 percent are women, the report said.
Minorities make up a larger portion of the bottom half.
While the differences between the top and bottom groups have diminished in some areas, the report said, disparities in the critical areas of income and wealth have increased. A New York City store clerk, she cannot afford to retire. Her health is stable for now, but she has high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart problems and no health insurance. If I get sick I won't be able to make ends meet. Meanwhile, participation in employer-sponsored pension plans continues to stagnate, prompting Congress to call for reforms.