Introduction
(Edition 5)
Dear Friends,
I want to tell you something straight from the heart: you’re doing better than you think. I know managing life on a fixed income can feel like trying to stretch a dollar the way we once stretched cassette tapes… but you’re here, you’re learning, you’re fighting for a better future. And I’m honored to be in your corner.
This week’s edition is one I’ve been dying to share because it’s packed with the kind of money-saving wisdom I wish someone had handed me years ago. If you’ve ever wondered, “How do I stretch what I have without feeling squeezed dry?” — this is your week.
This article aims to make budgeting feel empowering, not punishing… simple, not stressful… and maybe even a little fun. You’re going to walk away with tools that can save you hundreds a month without sacrificing the things that make life worth living.
And listen — every time you open this newsletter, I want you to feel like we’re sitting at the kitchen table together, coffee in hand, rooting for each other. Because that’s exactly what this is: a community. A team. A family.
With gratitude and a whole lot of hope,
Mike Bridges
Founder, The O55 Report
The heart of The O55 Report is all about helping people — providing ideas, tips, and hacks on how to be financially smarter.
Practical money-saving hacks
Smart catch-up strategies after 55
Creative income and career reinventions
Motivation, health, and lifestyle tips
Plus one new tip each week that saves you money, guaranteed
Featured Articles
Living on a fixed income is more common than many people realize. Over 40% of retirees rely on Social Security for at least half of their monthly income, and nearly 1 in 4 depend on it for 90% or more. People who follow a structured, written budget experience less financial stress and greater long-term stability, regardless of income level. In fact, a 2024 Consumer Finance Study found that older adults who track expenses monthly are 27% more likely to avoid debt and 42% more confident about handling surprise bills.
Tips for you: View Full Article
As we get older, many of us notice that sleep doesn’t come as easily as it used to. We wake up more often, can’t settle our thoughts, or just don’t feel fully rested, no matter how early we go to bed. Lack of sleep affects everything: our mood, our memory, our energy, and even the way we handle stress.
Older adults who stay active, curious, and socially connected tend to feel happier and more satisfied with life than those who stay stagnant. A little fun, a little movement, and a little laughter can lift the spirit more than most people realize. Join a local group, rediscover an old hobby, try something new, or simply spend time with people who bring good energy. Meaningful activities can brighten your routine and give each day a sense of purpose. This stage of life can be one of the most enjoyable chapters yet; you just need the right activities to spark it.
More and more older adults are discovering that living around people their age, people who understand their rhythm, share their interests, and look out for one another, brings comfort, safety, and a sense of belonging you can’t always find living alone. Shared activities, a little extra help when needed, and the comfort of friendly faces just steps away make community living a healthier and happier option for many older adults.
If you’ve been wanting a simple way to keep track of your money each month without complicated apps or confusing charts, this one’s for you. The Budget Buddy is an easy, step-by-step tracker designed to help you see exactly where your money goes, what you can adjust, and how to stay in control of your spending.
Many of us grew up using pen and paper, and this tool brings that same clarity… just organized in a friendlier format.
CRAZY EIGHTS OF THE WEEK
We want this newsletter to feel like it’s ours — not just ours to write, but ours to build together. What would you like us to talk about next?
