"and whose money can't even keep up with the rate of inflation because they are getting 0% return from the banks."
- well, nobody ever said banks are investment institutions. Want money to grow- keep 6mo expenses in the bank, invest the rest.
At least into Govt bonds, those are safe. Any "senior" even without any knowledge of it can get free investment advice at their Senior Center or at those free seminars in town.

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Happy New Year to all! Virtual hugs!