In every nook and cranny of our communities, from the bustling cities to the quietest rural areas, there lives a group of people who are essentially walking, talking history books. They’ve seen it all, from the first man on the moon to the invention of the internet. Yes, I’m talking about our senior citizens – the backbone of our society, the keepers of wisdom, and the masters of the art of storytelling.
But behind the wisdom and the tales of yesteryears, there’s a struggle that’s becoming all too common. Imagine having to choose between a meal and medication or counting pennies to make ends meet on a fixed income. That’s the reality for an increasing number of seniors across America. You might be thinking, “Surely, it can’t be that bad?” But let me paint you a picture that’s less Norman Rockwell and more Edward Hopper.
Take the story of Mary Cole from Bristol, Virginia, a 69-year-old grandmother, navigating the challenges of supporting herself and her teenage grandson on a tight budget. With only $914 in monthly Supplemental Security Income, she often finds herself at the end of the month facing an empty fridge and considering a visit to the local food pantry.
And Mary’s not alone in this boat. According to some rather sobering stats, the number of folks over 65 living in poverty jumped to 14.1% in 2022. That’s more than eight million people facing financial hardship in their golden years. In places like Chicago, to live comfortably in retirement, you’d need about $2,564 a month. But here’s the kicker: the average Social Security benefit is only around $1,900 a month. And if you thought that was bleak, about half of women ages 55 to 66 don’t have any personal retirement savings at all.
Food insecurity isn’t the only issue. Many seniors find themselves having to play a dangerous game with their health, skipping or rationing medications due to cost concerns. In a country that prides itself on progress and prosperity, it’s a stark reminder that not everyone gets to share in the abundance.
Now, let’s talk about the cost of living, which seems to be on a never-ending upward trajectory. Food, a basic necessity, is eating up more of Americans’ income than it has in 30 years. Senior citizens, especially those in Illinois, feel this pinch every time they check out at the grocery store or fill up their car.
It begs the question: Why should our elders, who have contributed so much to society, have to spend their twilight years in worry and want?
While millions are spent addressing other crises, it’s high time our leaders turn their attention closer to home. Suggestions for change are floating around, like establishing health care facilities and mini-grocery stores in senior communities, improving Social Security, and ensuring seniors have access to nutritious meals and essential services.
After all, these are the people who paved the way for us, fighting for the freedoms and comforts we enjoy today. It’s only fair that we ensure they can live out their years with dignity, security, and a little less worry.
So, next time you pass by a senior, maybe stop for a chat. You might just make their day a bit brighter. And who knows? You might even learn a thing or two. Let’s not forget our seniors. Instead, let’s make their golden years truly shine.
