Senior citizens fight inflation, rising electricity and prescription costs in Oklahoma

LAWTON, Okla. (KSWO) – Inflation is affecting shoppers throughout the nation, together with Oklahomans who’re chopping costs to make ends meet.

That’s based on a current ballot out of Oklahoma City.

The survey from Amber Integrated exhibits the typical costs for meals and vitality in Oklahoma and Texas are greater than the typical U.S. metropolis. One of the teams that’s needed to sacrifice probably the most are our senior citizens.

Between excessive prescription drug costs and skyrocketing utility charges, inflation is hurting seniors who reside on a hard and fast revenue in the Sooner State.

“As we know, inflation has been double digits for a very long time, so the cost of prescription drugs, food, energy, and it’s just rate increase on top of rate increase for utilities is really hitting people in the pocketbook and they’re really needing help,” Voskuhl stated.

This summer season, OG&E introduced a virtually two p.c charge improve, ensuing in costlier payments for patrons.

PSO additionally hiked costs this 12 months to get well costs from the 2021 winter storm.

Voskuhl stated one of the best ways to fight the will increase is to catch lawmakers’ consideration.

“What plan does OG&E have to reduce those costs for residential customers who have made them so profitable in the last few years? Are you gonna give money back to them? What kind of payment plans are you going to offer to help people who are struggling in paying their monthly electric bills?” Voskhul stated.

Like everybody else, the senior inhabitants is going through greater costs on the grocery retailer, too.

Voskuhl stated some aid is coming, although, for seniors quickly.

“People that are taking insulin who are on Medicare, there will now be a cap of $35 per month on folks paying for prescription drug costs regarding insulin,” Voskuhl stated. “There’ll be free vaccines like shingles also available starting in 2023.”

And beneficiaries will see an 8.7% improve to Social Security advantages for a value of residing adjustment. It’s the very best improve in 40 years.

“Depending on what your payment is per month from social security, they’ll be on average of more than $140 per month,” Voskuhl stated. “That’s some welcome news to help ease some of the inflationary costs. It’s not enough, but at least it’s some good news.”

Out of 500 Oklahomans surveyed, 60% stated they’re chopping again on groceries, journey and leisure.

Voskuhl encourages folks to contact the Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program, or SHIP, for unbiased information on Medicare choices and prescription drug plans at 1-800-763-2828.

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