ABSTRACT
Stagnantincomesandfallingwagesareonlypartofthe declineinwell-beingofworkingAmericans.Afamily's wealthalsoaffectsitsabilitytocopewithfinancialemergenciesaswellasitsstandardofliving.Forexample,financialassets,suchasmoneyinabankaccountorstocksor bonds,canhelpafamilymakeendsmeetduringperiodsof disabilityorunemployment.Tangibleassets,suchasahome oracar,candirectlyaffectafamily'squalityoflifeandthe easewithwhichitmeetsitsneedsforhousingand transportation.
