Image Credit: Stephanie Swensrude / CFJC Today

By Dylana Kneeshaw

INFLATION IN B.C.

As inflation rises, concerns grow about what B.C. seniors will give up to make ends meet

Jun 8, 2022 | 4:08 PM

KAMLOOPS — With record high prices at the pumps — and on grocery store shelves — it’s hard to avoid inflation in B.C. For seniors on a fixed income, it’s even more difficult to budget.

“Some seniors are looking to supplement their income hopefully through part-time work or whatever that might look like. I think the majority of seniors that I speak with are looking for ways to decrease their living expenses,” explains Brandi Allen, executive director of the Kamloops Centre for Seniors Information (KCIS).

A main strategy used by the KCIS is to initially make people aware of the programs that are available to help with financial changes. Allen says it’s been a frequent topic of discussion lately.

“A lot more conversations about things like hydro bills or food costs, and things like that that people are concerned about,” she notes. “And those are the ones where I try to run out and interject and make sure they do know about supports in Kamloops that they could use to potentially access some things that would make their everyday life more affordable.”

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B.C. Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie says the impact of inflation will become apparent over time as more seniors reduce their purchase of certain items or services.

“Food is a big one, but the other necessities — the dental care, the hearing aids, the vision, the eyeglasses — those are all proving to be extremely difficult for seniors whose incomes are lower than other people’s incomes to start with.”

According to Mackenzie, half of seniors in the province live on an income that is equivalent to a minimum wage job. And with it, they have to pay for groceries, housing and everything else.

“What I worry about is, what is it they’re giving up in order to have the food?” she says. “Are they giving up the medication? Are they not getting some of the other supports they need? Are they saying, ‘I can’t afford to have someone clean my house anymore, or clear my sidewalk or snow because I’ve got to pay these other bills that are mounting?'”

With longer life spans and career extensions, the seniors advocate office has already seen more people over the age of 65 continuing to work. But for people 80 to 85 years old, it can be tricky to find a job that is practical with their mobility.

“If somebody is able to work right now, they can pretty much find a job. It’s the ones who aren’t able to work,” adds Mackenzie.

Regardless of your age, the reality is you will likely notice inflation one way or another. But it is of higher concern for people who don’t have extra cash flow to lessen the impact.

“I think it’s going to be a lot harder on the demographic that is living on a fixed income. I think they’re going to feel it a lot harder and a lot faster than some of the rest of us,” stresses Allen.