This reader wanted to take a much-deserved retirement after a lifetime of working hard, but couldn’t afford to do that in her hometown. That is true for many seniors on fixed incomes. 

Why do you think that retirement used to be an achievable part of the American Dream, but now, for so many people, it’s out of reach? 

  • We all pay into Social Security, but what we get back isn’t enough
  • People used to have pensions, but now most jobs don’t have them
  • Health care later in life has gotten more expensive
  • Housing later in life has gotten more expensive
  • All of the above

If you were in charge, how would you fix this problem?

  • Make social security payments higher for seniors so they can afford to retire
  • Build affordable housing specifically meant for retirees on a fixed income
  • Provide free or affordable healthcare
  • Provide free or affordable food
  • All of the above

Thank you for sharing.

If you have more questions about retiring, check out this column about how to know when it is the right time to stop working.