By Marianne Lincoln
The Social Security Administration recently released their cost of living increase for 2025. The raise amounted to 2.5%. The average Social Security check is about $1783, so that is an additional $44.58 each month. (My friends checks are more like $1300, so that is $32.50 more each month.)
Based on my own home this year, the rent went up $195 (13%), my auto insurance climbed $80 (39%), without any accidents, my summer electricity climbed $5 a month (10%), and my food bill climbed 15%.
For this past year, the Federal Government says the Consumer Price Index climbed 3.0%. So the SS increase is already 0.5% short. But reality says it is far more than half a percent short in many places. This can be very difficult for the again population because they also spend more on healthcare needs, surgeries, doctors appointments and medical devices. And moving to a smaller, less expensive place to live is more difficult than ever due to the weakness that can come with aging.
Is AARP taking this on? Are there Seniors protesting on the street? Not that I have heard. I do know, that many of my Senior friends are taking on part time and full-time jobs because they no longer can make ends meet. Trust me, it is not easy getting hired as a senior either.
In short, watch out for your mom or dad if they are seniors living alone. Chek up on them and make sure they are able to keep up with the cost of living. You may need to help them find other options like food banks or low-income apartments. Trust me, it will not be pleasant helping them move out of a place they have been for much of their lives, but sometimes, you have to take on that difficult task. They may no longer be able to do it alone.
Your parents spent years raising you, now you may need to give back a bit of that caring. And while you are at it, write your Congressperson and ask what they can do about shoring up the Social Security program instead of trashing it, before the problem is on your doorstep.
Assistance for seniors:
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Pierce Prairie Post 