Raising the Retirement Age

[National Dialogue Moderator <moderator>]

Thanks to panelists and members of the public for giving your views on
raising the Social Security wage base. Let's try this one: raising the
retirement age. People are more healthier than folks were in 1940, we
live longer, and medicine can do a lot more for us. The age for full
benefits, now 65, will climb gradually to 67. Why not boost it to 69 or
70, effective in the years 2040 and beyond. By then, medical care will
be even better and longevity should be greater. If people stay in the
work force longer, the economic pie expands and everyone benefits. Do we
need to combine  this with  an improved disability program for those
with demanding physical jobs? Let's have your thoughts. Thanks.

Bob Rosenblatt
Los Angeles Times