I can't recall anyone from the prior generation; before WW2 and the baby boomers who had a pension. Best that I can figure those folks were cared for by their children or perhaps if they had wealth were on their own.
The Social Security Act was signed by FDR on 8/14/35. Taxes were collected for the first time in January 1937 and the first one-time, lump-sum payments were made that same month. Regular ongoing monthly benefits started in January 1940.
Yes, families took care of the elderly unless they were wealthy. My grandparents took care of their parents, and my parents took care of their parents. Now, my children are so hard pressed to make ends meet they can't take care of us, so we both still work at age 80. I pray that this young person does not have to face the hard facts of life.
Yes, most people don’t think of this or realize it.
A pension is from the 50s and only the Greatest and Silent Generations and lost of civll servants enjoy them. The rest are left to do the best they can.