I apologetically admit to only a fair skimming of the article (enough to get the gist of it), but at the time observed that it didn't really delve into the requ

I apologetically admit to only a fair skimming of the article (enough to get the gist of it), but at the time observed that it didn't really delve into the requirements/benefits for Social Security and how that's a factor (beyond brief mention of "income inequality" and one of the eligibility requirements). Going back and reading in full detail, I noticed that the article didn't really discuss possible solutions to the problem. My broader point was that a lack of modernization in how benefits are earned and paid out are reducing the payouts over-time for some of the poorest recipients of these sorts of programs. Giving subsistence income to the destitute helps to a point, but doesn't go far enough to really elevate one's standard of living to one which substantially increases health and reduces stress. Someone earning only $900/month probably isn't going to pay $100 for blood work and an x-ray as often as they should.