Women remain at a higher risk for retirement insecurity than men.  That risk can be reduced with the combination of a traditional pension, supplemental 401(k)-type individual savings, and Social Security.

Americans are increasingly worried about their retirement security in the face of falling home values, turmoil in the financial markets, and general economic instability. This insecurity can, at least in part, be attributed to the fact that fewer workers

Public and private retirement funds represent a considerable source of capital in the United States'  financial markets.  In 2007, retirement plans held close to $9 trillion in assets.

An adequate retirement income can be defined as one that enables an older household to take care of its own needs in retirement.  Workers who retire without adequate sources of income may face a range of unattractive choices.