In the United States, Social Security exists so that problems such as Food Insecurity do not exist. However, many pensioners cannot fully meet all the costs and inflation. For this reason, some studies show that around 9.7% of pensioners cannot afford their monthly expenses. This means that they are at risk of Food Insecurity, which is a very serious problem.
The Conversation reports that almost all pensioners on Social Security can afford healthy food and activities. However, there are also a good number of them who are suffering from Food Insecurity. A small increase of just 10% in benefits could eliminate this problem for around 500,000 pensioners. This is not the only solution available. There are other possible solutions to this very serious problem.
Food Insecurity is a very serious problem for pensioners
Data from the US Census Bureau shows that 9.7% of adults have food insecurity. This is up almost 2% from April, when 8% of Americans were food insecure. With such a big food problem, the Social Security Administration must do something about it to avoid major problems in the future.
In addition to this, there is also the possible reduction of pensions to consider. If the trust funds really do run out in 2035, pensioners will receive 20% less of their benefits. This will mean that most pensioners will end up with a large Food Insecurity by then. This is not good news for the citizens of the United States.
What is the best solution to this problem?
Experts from the US Department of Agriculture state that food insecurity is not having access to food for an active and healthy life. Therefore, a pensioner who does not receive enough money does not have access to this. Thus, an increase in pensions would secure and eliminate the problem. However, this may not be the right solution.
It is possible that a more correct solution would be price regulation. If the free market does not increase prices too much, pensioners will be able to afford all the food they need for a healthy life without any problems. Another option would be a combination of both aspects, thus partly controlling inflation and increasing pensions in general.
