I'm one of those now on a semi-fixed income. Watching a gas hike of 20% over a year, and the subsequent price hikes on everything else, there are consequences. Scrimping and saving are the order of the day. Meat only gets bought, in bulk, if it's on for cheap. I have a set limit on my gas allowance unless I make extra. Slobby's and the Stupidstore are not in my budget.
I have taken the lessons learnt by my grandparents, through war and depression, to heart. We waste too much time and effort on frivolous "I wants", and don't focus enough on needs. We don't need a TV plus accessories in every room. Can't justify $500 on a rod and reel.
I've been quite creative in finding extra money the past couple of years. Despite my disabilities I refuse to give up, surrender, and lock myself in my room. There aren't too many options
Pension funds and RSP's aren't that secure. Funds fail, go bankrupt. At the flip of a switch, governments can change the rules and start taxing the RSP's. They already did that on some money funds a few years back.
The food banks and benevolent funds can't keep up in most cities. Churches are, once again, opening soup kitchens. There are a lot of people without heat and hydro, again, this winter. That is the lot in life for a number of low income and fixed income families.