As of November 1, 2025, millions of Americans—including many older adults—may not receive their monthly food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This disruption affects individuals living on fixed incomes, many of whom rely on SNAP to afford groceries and maintain their health.
Over 50% of those 65+ in the US rely on Social Security for most of their family income. Though America has evolved over the last 80 years, Social Security has not. With no change to current policy and spending, Social Security can only continue to pay out full benefits until 2034.