Social Security, intended to provide a financial safety net for retirees, must be increased for many seniors. Vaughn's income, well below the poverty line, exemplifies the struggle faced by numerous elderly Americans who rely solely on these payments. The disparity between the cost of living and the support offered by these programs becomes starkly evident, pushing seniors like Vaughn to the brink of poverty despite their years of contribution to society. The geographical disparities in poverty rates mentioned in the module further amplify Vaughn's sentiment. Seniors in states including California, New York, and Louisiana face higher poverty rates, showcasing how these programs' efficacy can vary based on location (KFF, 2014). The cost of living, affordable housing access, and healthcare services can impact seniors' quality of life, making the balancing act even more precarious. Any reduction in benefits, increased expenses, or inadequate support could disrupt the delicate equilibrium they struggle to maintain. Vaughn's words echo the fear of many seniors who worry that altering these essential lifelines could tip them to more profound financial hardship and insecurity