Recent census data analysis suggests economic inequality greatest among elderly. Worst off 20 percent of elderly (disproportionately unmarried women, minorities, physically impaired) received 5.5 percent elderly's total resources; best off 20 percent received 46 percent. Equalizing effects of Social Security outweighed by private pensions, asset income, other sources. Findings suggest process of cumulative economic advantage/disadvantage throughout life course. (Author/NB)