Although the older person's economic stiuation has improved, older women, minorities, and rural residents have incomes significantly lower than those for the older population in general. Older married women may appear to be financially secure, but many of their resources often disappear when their husbands die. Widowhood or divorce endangers the economic resources of older women. Financial resources available to older women include earnings, private pensions, and public pensions and assistance. Older women are less likely than men to have personal earnings, and these earnings are generally lower. Women workers are less likely to be covered by private pensions and, if they are covered, the benefits are usually lower than those for men. The vast majority of persons over age 65 (90%) receive Social Security benefits; for 80%, Social Security is the sole source of income. To improve their economic situation, women must be able to provide for themselves economically, be self-sufficient, and develop money management skills. Community and public services could help women prepare for making financial decisions. Reforms in the provision of Social Security benefits and private pensions are also needed to improve the economic status of older women. (NRB)