How does this savvy pensioner save a fortune in the face of soaring living costs? Uncover their secrets to save on groceries, transport, and more!

The rising living costs can be particularly challenging for those living on fixed incomes, such as pensioners.

With limited resources, it's important to be smart with spending and find ways to save money without compromising quality of life.



Pensioners across Australia are becoming increasingly savvy savers, using creative ways to stretch their budgets and make ends meet.

For some, this involves carefully choosing the cheapest produce at the supermarket and scaling back on non-essential purchases. But, when it comes to being a money-savvy pensioner, Graham James, 79, takes it to the next level.

A retired wheat farmer originally from the town of Dumbleyung in Western Australia but now living in Albany, Mr James said that his $773 fortnightly pension was – and still isn’t – enough to cover the high cost of living in the area.


pexels-photo-12357525.jpeg

People living on fixed incomes are hit the hardest by skyrocketing living costs. Credit: Pexels/Dany Kurniawan.



To stretch his funds further, Mr James and his wife opt for budget-friendly staples like mince and chicken for their meals and attempt to grow their vegetables and herbs at home.

He shared: ‘They [groceries] have all gone up a reasonable amount, not as much as you'd think when you consider what the farmers get.’

‘But we generally use mince quite a lot, that keeps it down and chicken — that's our main staple.’

‘On vegetables, we usually try to have a vegetable garden growing … But unfortunately this year we're sharing them with the insects.’



But shopping for essentials isn't the only thing Mr James has to worry about when it comes to stretching his budget. Transportation and socialising can also be very expensive, as we know.

But luckily, Mr James has come up with some creative and sensible solutions. To save on transportation costs, he and other pensioners turn to public transport instead of driving to move around. The 79-year-old said that making the switch saved him money on fuel and car registration.



However, he acknowledged that while this is a good strategy, it only works where you can access such options, which isn't the case in all regional and rural areas.

Furthermore, Mr James has also dipped into his superannuation to buy solar panels which have helped greatly reduce his home power bill.

He may have been looking for paid work if it weren't for his disability. Still, luckily he found another way to socialise and put his skills to good use — he volunteers for the Family History group in Albany and helps people look for their long-lost relatives from generations past.

Mr James advised other retirees to volunteer in the community to make the most of their time, as well as save a bit of money while socialising and connecting with people who share similar interests or hobbies.


Graham James’ Tips for Pensioners to Save Money.jpg
A summary of Mr James’ tips on stretching your budget as a pensioner. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.



Demand for social services on the rise

The non-profit organisation Chorus, which runs the Meals on Wheels service, has reported a significant increase in demand for pre-cooked meals.

Carly Russell, Chorus's customer advocate, revealed that the demand for the service has spiked by almost a third, reaching 200 meals a week over the past six months.

She remarked: ‘Some of them have [said] … it's almost cheaper to have [Meals on Wheels] … than to go shopping for myself and buy groceries.’



According to Meals on Wheels Chef Carol Standish, the lively ambience of a full house is an essential element in enabling seniors to remain self-sufficient for an extended period.

‘A lot of them come here and then they go to bingo, which is held here as well so they come and have their meal, and if they're a bit slow we'll dish it up and take it in with them,’ she said.

The centre also offers affordable dining options and other essential services, including an in-house hairdresser, to help seniors with their daily needs.

Russell urged those in need to seek help and not to struggle in silence. Many non-profit organisations can adjust their services to make them more affordable for those in dire situations.

Key Takeaways

  • Pensioners across Australia are finding creative ways to stretch their budgets and save money on groceries, transportation, and socialising.
  • Retired wheat farmer, Graham James, opts for budget-friendly staples, grows his vegetables, and relies on public transport to save on transportation costs.
  • James also installed solar panels using his superannuation, greatly reducing his power bill.
  • Non-profit organisation Chorus, which runs the Meals on Wheels service, has reported a significant increase in demand for pre-cooked meals, indicating more seniors are seeking affordable dining options.



Between Graham’s ingenuity and the availability of social services, there are strategies out there to help make life as a pensioner a bit more bearable in the face of soaring living costs.

So, don’t be afraid to seek help and explore non-profit organisations that can adjust their services to fit your needs. Remember, assistance is available.

Members, have you ever had to devise creative approaches to budgeting and stretching your finances? Share your tips and stories in the comments below!
 
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Living on my own. I don't need a lot to survive on. I only go to the supermarket when I need something. Which is only 0nce a week or fortnight. Can't remember the last time I spent over $100. I also volunteer at my local hospital 1 morning a week. LOVE IT 😃
 
The rising living costs can be particularly challenging for those living on fixed incomes, such as pensioners.

With limited resources, it's important to be smart with spending and find ways to save money without compromising quality of life.



Pensioners across Australia are becoming increasingly savvy savers, using creative ways to stretch their budgets and make ends meet.

For some, this involves carefully choosing the cheapest produce at the supermarket and scaling back on non-essential purchases. But, when it comes to being a money-savvy pensioner, Graham James, 79, takes it to the next level.

A retired wheat farmer originally from the town of Dumbleyung in Western Australia but now living in Albany, Mr James said that his $773 fortnightly pension was – and still isn’t – enough to cover the high cost of living in the area.


pexels-photo-12357525.jpeg

People living on fixed incomes are hit the hardest by skyrocketing living costs. Credit: Pexels/Dany Kurniawan.



To stretch his funds further, Mr James and his wife opt for budget-friendly staples like mince and chicken for their meals and attempt to grow their vegetables and herbs at home.

He shared: ‘They [groceries] have all gone up a reasonable amount, not as much as you'd think when you consider what the farmers get.’

‘But we generally use mince quite a lot, that keeps it down and chicken — that's our main staple.’

‘On vegetables, we usually try to have a vegetable garden growing … But unfortunately this year we're sharing them with the insects.’



But shopping for essentials isn't the only thing Mr James has to worry about when it comes to stretching his budget. Transportation and socialising can also be very expensive, as we know.

But luckily, Mr James has come up with some creative and sensible solutions. To save on transportation costs, he and other pensioners turn to public transport instead of driving to move around. The 79-year-old said that making the switch saved him money on fuel and car registration.



However, he acknowledged that while this is a good strategy, it only works where you can access such options, which isn't the case in all regional and rural areas.

Furthermore, Mr James has also dipped into his superannuation to buy solar panels which have helped greatly reduce his home power bill.

He may have been looking for paid work if it weren't for his disability. Still, luckily he found another way to socialise and put his skills to good use — he volunteers for the Family History group in Albany and helps people look for their long-lost relatives from generations past.

Mr James advised other retirees to volunteer in the community to make the most of their time, as well as save a bit of money while socialising and connecting with people who share similar interests or hobbies.


View attachment 16143
A summary of Mr James’ tips on stretching your budget as a pensioner. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.



Demand for social services on the rise

The non-profit organisation Chorus, which runs the Meals on Wheels service, has reported a significant increase in demand for pre-cooked meals.

Carly Russell, Chorus's customer advocate, revealed that the demand for the service has spiked by almost a third, reaching 200 meals a week over the past six months.

She remarked: ‘Some of them have [said] … it's almost cheaper to have [Meals on Wheels] … than to go shopping for myself and buy groceries.’



According to Meals on Wheels Chef Carol Standish, the lively ambience of a full house is an essential element in enabling seniors to remain self-sufficient for an extended period.

‘A lot of them come here and then they go to bingo, which is held here as well so they come and have their meal, and if they're a bit slow we'll dish it up and take it in with them,’ she said.

The centre also offers affordable dining options and other essential services, including an in-house hairdresser, to help seniors with their daily needs.

Russell urged those in need to seek help and not to struggle in silence. Many non-profit organisations can adjust their services to make them more affordable for those in dire situations.

Key Takeaways

  • Pensioners across Australia are finding creative ways to stretch their budgets and save money on groceries, transportation, and socialising.
  • Retired wheat farmer, Graham James, opts for budget-friendly staples, grows his vegetables, and relies on public transport to save on transportation costs.
  • James also installed solar panels using his superannuation, greatly reducing his power bill.
  • Non-profit organisation Chorus, which runs the Meals on Wheels service, has reported a significant increase in demand for pre-cooked meals, indicating more seniors are seeking affordable dining options.



Between Graham’s ingenuity and the availability of social services, there are strategies out there to help make life as a pensioner a bit more bearable in the face of soaring living costs.

So, don’t be afraid to seek help and explore non-profit organisations that can adjust their services to fit your needs. Remember, assistance is available.

Members, have you ever had to devise creative approaches to budgeting and stretching your finances? Share your tips and stories in the comments below!
If he only gets $773 a fortnight then he must have a fair bit of money in his account or else he would get full pension!!!
 
If he only gets $773 a fortnight then he must have a fair bit of money in his account or else he would get full pension!!!
My thoughts exactly. Add to this that the $773 is for him and his wife.
 
The rising living costs can be particularly challenging for those living on fixed incomes, such as pensioners.

With limited resources, it's important to be smart with spending and find ways to save money without compromising quality of life.



Pensioners across Australia are becoming increasingly savvy savers, using creative ways to stretch their budgets and make ends meet.

For some, this involves carefully choosing the cheapest produce at the supermarket and scaling back on non-essential purchases. But, when it comes to being a money-savvy pensioner, Graham James, 79, takes it to the next level.

A retired wheat farmer originally from the town of Dumbleyung in Western Australia but now living in Albany, Mr James said that his $773 fortnightly pension was – and still isn’t – enough to cover the high cost of living in the area.


pexels-photo-12357525.jpeg

People living on fixed incomes are hit the hardest by skyrocketing living costs. Credit: Pexels/Dany Kurniawan.



To stretch his funds further, Mr James and his wife opt for budget-friendly staples like mince and chicken for their meals and attempt to grow their vegetables and herbs at home.

He shared: ‘They [groceries] have all gone up a reasonable amount, not as much as you'd think when you consider what the farmers get.’

‘But we generally use mince quite a lot, that keeps it down and chicken — that's our main staple.’

‘On vegetables, we usually try to have a vegetable garden growing … But unfortunately this year we're sharing them with the insects.’



But shopping for essentials isn't the only thing Mr James has to worry about when it comes to stretching his budget. Transportation and socialising can also be very expensive, as we know.

But luckily, Mr James has come up with some creative and sensible solutions. To save on transportation costs, he and other pensioners turn to public transport instead of driving to move around. The 79-year-old said that making the switch saved him money on fuel and car registration.



However, he acknowledged that while this is a good strategy, it only works where you can access such options, which isn't the case in all regional and rural areas.

Furthermore, Mr James has also dipped into his superannuation to buy solar panels which have helped greatly reduce his home power bill.

He may have been looking for paid work if it weren't for his disability. Still, luckily he found another way to socialise and put his skills to good use — he volunteers for the Family History group in Albany and helps people look for their long-lost relatives from generations past.

Mr James advised other retirees to volunteer in the community to make the most of their time, as well as save a bit of money while socialising and connecting with people who share similar interests or hobbies.


View attachment 16143
A summary of Mr James’ tips on stretching your budget as a pensioner. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.



Demand for social services on the rise

The non-profit organisation Chorus, which runs the Meals on Wheels service, has reported a significant increase in demand for pre-cooked meals.

Carly Russell, Chorus's customer advocate, revealed that the demand for the service has spiked by almost a third, reaching 200 meals a week over the past six months.

She remarked: ‘Some of them have [said] … it's almost cheaper to have [Meals on Wheels] … than to go shopping for myself and buy groceries.’



According to Meals on Wheels Chef Carol Standish, the lively ambience of a full house is an essential element in enabling seniors to remain self-sufficient for an extended period.

‘A lot of them come here and then they go to bingo, which is held here as well so they come and have their meal, and if they're a bit slow we'll dish it up and take it in with them,’ she said.

The centre also offers affordable dining options and other essential services, including an in-house hairdresser, to help seniors with their daily needs.

Russell urged those in need to seek help and not to struggle in silence. Many non-profit organisations can adjust their services to make them more affordable for those in dire situations.

Key Takeaways

  • Pensioners across Australia are finding creative ways to stretch their budgets and save money on groceries, transportation, and socialising.
  • Retired wheat farmer, Graham James, opts for budget-friendly staples, grows his vegetables, and relies on public transport to save on transportation costs.
  • James also installed solar panels using his superannuation, greatly reducing his power bill.
  • Non-profit organisation Chorus, which runs the Meals on Wheels service, has reported a significant increase in demand for pre-cooked meals, indicating more seniors are seeking affordable dining options.



Between Graham’s ingenuity and the availability of social services, there are strategies out there to help make life as a pensioner a bit more bearable in the face of soaring living costs.

So, don’t be afraid to seek help and explore non-profit organisations that can adjust their services to fit your needs. Remember, assistance is available.

Members, have you ever had to devise creative approaches to budgeting and stretching your finances? Share your tips and stories in the comments below!
If you are a small size like 8 to 10 women’s check out kids tracksuit same as women’s size in 14 and 16 age and dollars cheaper. I save at least $5 on jumpers some nice plain jumpers. Also buy kids shoes size 3 children’s size 5 adults and you can’t tell any difference.
 
I make my own bread 1 loaf of organic bread costs me $2.60 instead of $7.00 at the health shop. Make all my own food from scratch and buy meat at 7.00pm to get reduced prices at the supermarket. It all helps! Can’t afford to eat cheap crap food, the doctors bills are way more expensive!
 
The rising living costs can be particularly challenging for those living on fixed incomes, such as pensioners.

With limited resources, it's important to be smart with spending and find ways to save money without compromising quality of life.



Pensioners across Australia are becoming increasingly savvy savers, using creative ways to stretch their budgets and make ends meet.

For some, this involves carefully choosing the cheapest produce at the supermarket and scaling back on non-essential purchases. But, when it comes to being a money-savvy pensioner, Graham James, 79, takes it to the next level.

A retired wheat farmer originally from the town of Dumbleyung in Western Australia but now living in Albany, Mr James said that his $773 fortnightly pension was – and still isn’t – enough to cover the high cost of living in the area.


pexels-photo-12357525.jpeg

People living on fixed incomes are hit the hardest by skyrocketing living costs. Credit: Pexels/Dany Kurniawan.



To stretch his funds further, Mr James and his wife opt for budget-friendly staples like mince and chicken for their meals and attempt to grow their vegetables and herbs at home.

He shared: ‘They [groceries] have all gone up a reasonable amount, not as much as you'd think when you consider what the farmers get.’

‘But we generally use mince quite a lot, that keeps it down and chicken — that's our main staple.’

‘On vegetables, we usually try to have a vegetable garden growing … But unfortunately this year we're sharing them with the insects.’



But shopping for essentials isn't the only thing Mr James has to worry about when it comes to stretching his budget. Transportation and socialising can also be very expensive, as we know.

But luckily, Mr James has come up with some creative and sensible solutions. To save on transportation costs, he and other pensioners turn to public transport instead of driving to move around. The 79-year-old said that making the switch saved him money on fuel and car registration.



However, he acknowledged that while this is a good strategy, it only works where you can access such options, which isn't the case in all regional and rural areas.

Furthermore, Mr James has also dipped into his superannuation to buy solar panels which have helped greatly reduce his home power bill.

He may have been looking for paid work if it weren't for his disability. Still, luckily he found another way to socialise and put his skills to good use — he volunteers for the Family History group in Albany and helps people look for their long-lost relatives from generations past.

Mr James advised other retirees to volunteer in the community to make the most of their time, as well as save a bit of money while socialising and connecting with people who share similar interests or hobbies.


View attachment 16143
A summary of Mr James’ tips on stretching your budget as a pensioner. Credit: Seniors Discount Club.



Demand for social services on the rise

The non-profit organisation Chorus, which runs the Meals on Wheels service, has reported a significant increase in demand for pre-cooked meals.

Carly Russell, Chorus's customer advocate, revealed that the demand for the service has spiked by almost a third, reaching 200 meals a week over the past six months.

She remarked: ‘Some of them have [said] … it's almost cheaper to have [Meals on Wheels] … than to go shopping for myself and buy groceries.’



According to Meals on Wheels Chef Carol Standish, the lively ambience of a full house is an essential element in enabling seniors to remain self-sufficient for an extended period.

‘A lot of them come here and then they go to bingo, which is held here as well so they come and have their meal, and if they're a bit slow we'll dish it up and take it in with them,’ she said.

The centre also offers affordable dining options and other essential services, including an in-house hairdresser, to help seniors with their daily needs.

Russell urged those in need to seek help and not to struggle in silence. Many non-profit organisations can adjust their services to make them more affordable for those in dire situations.

Key Takeaways

  • Pensioners across Australia are finding creative ways to stretch their budgets and save money on groceries, transportation, and socialising.
  • Retired wheat farmer, Graham James, opts for budget-friendly staples, grows his vegetables, and relies on public transport to save on transportation costs.
  • James also installed solar panels using his superannuation, greatly reducing his power bill.
  • Non-profit organisation Chorus, which runs the Meals on Wheels service, has reported a significant increase in demand for pre-cooked meals, indicating more seniors are seeking affordable dining options.



Between Graham’s ingenuity and the availability of social services, there are strategies out there to help make life as a pensioner a bit more bearable in the face of soaring living costs.

So, don’t be afraid to seek help and explore non-profit organisations that can adjust their services to fit your needs. Remember, assistance is available.

Members, have you ever had to devise creative approaches to budgeting and stretching your finances? Share your tips and stories in the comments below!
I can't think of anything more annoying than a bunch of old folks all eating the same meals from Meals on Wheels together while waiting for the Bingo to start. I used to deliver meals on Wheels when I was in my 60s Then, it was a bland unappetizing feed that I would not eat myself but then I am extremely fussy & would rather go without that meal. In fact, I really don't like socializing at all, I appreciate my own company I found 'Lockdown' the best 2 years of my life! I also never eat mince or sausages & buying a good steak once a fortnight is well worth the effort & if you can get a lower class of meat ie skirt & you wrap it in paw-paw leaves & store it in the fridge for a couple of days it will eat like the best steak ever, the trick is getting paw-paw leaves.
 
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I can't think of anything more annoying than a bunch of old folks all eating the same meals from Meals on Wheels together while waiting for the Bingo to start. I used to deliver meals on Wheels when I was in my 60s Then, it was a bland unappetizing feed that I would not eat myself but then I am extremely fussy & would rather go without that meal. In fact, I really don't like socializing at all, I appreciate my own company I found 'Lockdown' the best 2 years of my life! I also never eat mince or sausages & buying a good steak once a fortnight is well worth the effort & if you can get a lower class of meat ie skirt & you wrap it in paw-paw leaves & store it in the fridge for a couple of days it will eat like the best steak ever, the trick is getting paw-paw leaves.
I also volunteered for Meals on Wheels for 5years+. The meals were great, lots of choices and no complaints. We were allowed to keep any leftover meals. They had a choice of soups, main meals and desserts. The selection of meals changed every fortnight and customers were given the meal plan 2 weeks in advance for their selection. I am also a pensioner and buy mince and chicken regularly, so much you can cook and variety with these staples. Occassionally we buy a nice steak (half each) with vegetables. I buy my meat from a butcher and even though it is more expensive than supermarkets you can select the size of the meats you want and buy 1 and cut in half. It has been a lot cheaper than having to buy bulk like the supermarkets want you to.
 
I can't think of anything more annoying than a bunch of old folks all eating the same meals from Meals on Wheels together while waiting for the Bingo to start. I used to deliver meals on Wheels when I was in my 60s Then, it was a bland unappetizing feed that I would not eat myself but then I am extremely fussy & would rather go without that meal. In fact, I really don't like socializing at all, I appreciate my own company I found 'Lockdown' the best 2 years of my life! I also never eat mince or sausages & buying a good steak once a fortnight is well worth the effort & if you can get a lower class of meat ie skirt & you wrap it in paw-paw leaves & store it in the fridge for a couple of days it will eat like the best steak ever, the trick is getting paw-paw leaves.
Pineapple has the same type of enzyme, protease, which breaks down meat proteins.
 
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Reactions: debjane
If he only gets $773 a fortnight then he must have a fair bit of money in his account or else he would get full pension!!!
If he only gets $773 a fortnight then he must have a fair bit of money in his account or else he would get full pension!!!
If he only gets $773 a fortnight then he must have a fair bit of money in his account or else he would get full pension!!!
Believe it or not - they won’t have that much. 🙁
 

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