I just happened upon this incredibly researched and well written book. Although it is slightly dated (2012) it was an eye opener for me and I have been around the block a few times during which I was kicked to the curb upon occasion. Although I survived and even thrived a lot of good luck was involved.
The title of the book is "Pound Foolish", its author Helaine Olen.
One caveat: It is written from a woman's perspective; the author leans to the left and is strongly opinionated. So, take what you like and leave the rest.
"Desperation, fear and insecurity can be a salesperson’s best friend. Ms. Olen learns how lucrative it is to sell financial services to the elderly, many of them terrified of outliving their savings. A 2009 AARP survey found that nearly one in 10 people over 55, or about 5.9 million Americans, had attended a free financial seminar in the last three years.
At the World MoneyShow, an annual event in Orlando, 80 percent of attendees were over 55. The author writes that “a panicked baby boomer is their best customer.”"
From:
‘Pound Foolish’ Eyes Problems of Personal Finance Advice - The New York Times