Contrast the labor force participation rate with the employment-population ratio. Predict what would happen to the labor force participation rate of women if wages for women decreased. Explain. Predict what would happen to the labor force participation rate of workers in their 50s if Medicare benefits (large health care subsidies for the elderly) were lowered to age 55. Explain. In some urban neighborhoods, crime is a potential source of non-labor income for many individuals. Explain how this might affect labor force participation rates in these neighborhoods.