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Understanding the impact of inflation on family life
As inflation continues to rise, many families are feeling the pinch, especially seniors who have spent their lives saving for a comfortable retirement. In Ontario, Sharon McArthur and her husband Wayne Gattinger are experiencing firsthand how soaring grocery prices and living costs are reshaping their family traditions.
Once a couple who hosted family dinners regularly, they now find themselves struggling to maintain their lifestyle as the cost of essentials skyrockets.
The struggle to maintain traditions
Sharon, a 74-year-old retiree, recalls the joy of cooking for her family.
However, with grocery bills climbing, the couple has had to cut back significantly. “It’s too cost-prohibitive now,” she explains, noting that even their extended family is feeling the strain. The couple used to enjoy hosting dinners once or twice a week, but now those gatherings have become a rare occurrence.
“They don’t invite us over like they used to because it’s hard enough for them,” she adds, highlighting a broader trend affecting many families across Canada.
Financial realities for seniors
Living on a fixed income can be challenging, especially when unexpected expenses arise.
McArthur and Gattinger rely on approximately $2,800 a month, with a significant portion going towards their mortgage and bills. With inflation causing prices to double or even triple, they find themselves with little left at the end of the month.
“We have cut every expense we possibly can,” McArthur states, emphasizing the sacrifices they’ve made, such as limiting heating in the winter and selling their second vehicle.
The emotional toll of financial strain
One of the hardest aspects of their new reality is the inability to provide for their grandchildren during special occasions.
“It’s heartbreaking not to be able to buy them Christmas and birthday presents,” McArthur admits. The couple’s fears extend beyond just day-to-day expenses; they worry about their mortgage renewal and the potential for increased payments. “We could end up homeless, and it’s a real fear,” she confesses, reflecting the anxiety many seniors face in today’s economy.
Community support and resilience
Despite their struggles, McArthur and Gattinger are not alone. Food Banks Canada reports a significant increase in seniors accessing food banks, with visits nearly doubling in the past five years. This trend underscores the challenges faced by older adults on fixed incomes as they navigate rising costs. McArthur, who once donated to food banks, now finds herself relying on them for support. “Never in my life did I envision myself having to access a food bank,” she shares, highlighting the stark reality many seniors face today.
Calls for change
As the couple grapples with their financial situation, they are advocating for change. They believe that the Canadian Pension Plan should be adjusted to reflect the rising cost of living. “The cost of living has gone up, and everybody gets a raise, but seniors don’t get a raise,” Gattinger points out. Their story is a reminder of the need for systemic changes to support seniors in an ever-changing economic landscape.
Finding hope amidst challenges
Despite the difficulties, McArthur and Gattinger strive to remain optimistic. “We’re thankful for what we have today, and we’ll take each day as it comes,” McArthur says, embodying a spirit of resilience that many families are adopting as they navigate these challenging times. Their story serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of rising living costs on family traditions and the importance of community support in overcoming adversity.
