Q: We are both in our 70s, saved what we hope will support us until we go, but are now beginning to think we may be lucky if we have enough savings. Increasing and hidden food inflation, lack of communication between our generation and the younger generations, lack of computer capabilities, family divorces, fast-paced changes and lack of caring are all parts of a negative package we face in our retirement community. How can we overcome and cheer ourselves up?

A: Historically, others have survived and rose above what appeared to be unsolvable in their times. Crises do not give us much time for making decisions. It becomes a case where either we make a decision or a decision will be made for us — by circumstances or others.

History has proven that to be true.

Your attitude means a lot. You must believe you can resolve the situation, look forward, have faith, see new opportunities and simplify, always making the best of what happens.

Realize that others have been through the process and made their choices!

HOW MUCH DO WE NEED TO SAVE?

Q: My wife and I are in our 70s, and after marriage we chose to save as much as we could for what we believed we would need for our lifetimes. Until this year, we felt we had done an adequate job and were right on target.

What has happened in the past year to our turbulent financial world that has created the feeling that we have not saved enough?

What is your gut feeling is enough?

A: I wish I had an answer for you. Living longer, new medical legislation, unemployment, divorces and another 100 or more possibilities lie ahead.

Luckily you have been doing the right thing by saving and understanding there will come a moment of truth, and you are actually in a position to cope with the consequences.

Your best path is maintaining faith and knowing your plan is to be as financially prepared as possible to take care of your needs.

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California retirement community. Contact him at [email protected]. Betty is a friend of Doug Mayberry, whom she helps write this column. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.