To gain a better understanding of public perceptions about the social security issue, SSA launched a consumer research project conducted by the Gallup Corporation, titled: “Public Understanding Measurement System” (PUMS). The key findings of the survey are shown in the graphic. On a less positive note, the PUMS data indicates a reduced level of knowledge among several demographic groups, including those in the 30-49 age bracket, African-Americans and Asian-Americans. From the research, two things became clear:

Even as the total population of America’s veterans shrinks, increasing numbers of U.S. troops have left the military with damaged bodies and minds – a large pool of disabled veterans that will cost the country billions of dollars for decades to come.