America’s extremely wealthy population is bigger than ever. And their money is supporting jobs for an increasing number of low-wage workers. Also called wealth workers, they cut, clean and color the nails of rich people’s hands and feet. They rub and stretch rich people’s bodies. They help rich people exercise and become stronger. But the workers who provide this manicuring, massaging and personal training often earn very low wages. Mark Muro is a researcher at the Brookings Institution in Washington, DC. He explains that people with extra money are willing to pay other people to do services for them, whether it’s teaching them yoga or walking their dogs. At the same time, Muro says, an increasing number of people really need this sort of work. But he notes that the country is losing middle-wage work, what Americans might call traditionally more solid or dignified.

What does dignified mean?
serious or worthy
middle wages
of hands and feet
worth less money
Who is willing to pay for services?
low wage workers
dog walkers
personal trainers
people with extra money
Workers earn very low wages.
additional
very low
adequate
more tip