Is it true that when a spouse passes away the other spouse and the children can apply for a portion of or half the social security benefits? What if the living spouse is in her 60's and still working today? Is it possible for the living spouse to receive benefits, and what if the living spouse has faced some hardships?

What are the ages of the people involved? Where in her 60's?

This covers it all - Social Security Online: Widows, Widowers & Other Survivors: Qualify and Apply (http://www.ssa.gov/ww&os2.htm)