Reply #26: Here an article from LA Times discussing the issue.

[DCBob]

May 24, 2009| WASHINGTON — Instead of seeing older workers staying on the job longer as the economy has worsened, the Social Security system is reporting a major surge in early retirement claims that could have implications for the financial security of millions of baby boomers.

Since the current federal fiscal year began Oct. 1, claims have been running 25% ahead of last year, compared with the 15% increase that had been projected as the post-World War II generation reaches eligibility for early retirement, according to Stephen C. Goss, chief actuary for the Social Security Administration.

http://articles.latimes.com/2009/may/24/nation/na-retirement24

This article is a bit dated but I think these same trends are happening now.