How Do You Stretch a Paycheck?

Rent Burden 53 percent Income $2,727 (mostly Social Security) Rent $1,459 for a three-bedroom rent-stabilized apartment in Rego Park, Queens, including utilities.

“I’m very frugal, and I keep extremely good records and I have a little bit of savings.”

“Unlike many other seniors, I have little places, such as my small remaining retirement funds, from which I can nab a few dollars when needed.”

“I consider travel in my past. I have my wonderful memories, and I live very simply.”

“I’m very grateful to the city for the wonderful senior centers. I have no complaints about lack of care or lack of support. The only problem is rent.”

Paul David Wilkin, 77

Retired. Worked in desktop publishing for a financial services firm and taught in a school in Zambia.