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at the Gerontology Institute
The Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging is part of the Gerontology Institute at UMass Boston. Our mission is to conduct applied research that informs communities as their populations become older demographically, including research on topics that impact older adults seeking to age in their communities.

Elder Index Report: True Cost of Aging Keeps Rising
Using the latest data from the Elder Index, a new CSDRA report estimates that 7 million older adults, especially those living alone, lack the financial resources to cover their basic needs.
Announcements
- REPORT: Living Below the Line: Insecurity in Massachusetts, 2022
- CSDRA: Ten years of helping Massachusetts communities serve their older residents
- The Elder Index at Work: How a Data Resource is Making a Difference in Service and Advocacy for Older Adults
- CSDRA interns gain research, social policy experience as undergraduates
- Next Avenue talks with Jan Mutchler: Where Older Adults Are Most Financially Insecure
What We Do
Our mission is to conduct applied research that informs communities as their populations become older demographically.
- The Elder Index
A national county-by-county measure of income needed by older adults to maintain independence and meet their daily living costs. - Evaluating Service Needs in Massachusetts Communities
Needs assessments to support municipalities in meeting their planning goals and educate community members on aging issues. - Portraits of an Aging Society
Demographic resources produced for those interested in the wellbeing of Massachusetts' and New England's older adult population.