@Woody girl
We all have unique circumstances so what I or others suggest cannot be taken as universal. However, much of what I said can be of relevance to a majority of people.
Put simply I'm thinking that it's a step process where you look at where you are, look at what is unavoidable expenses and what is a luxury you really don't need or could cut out without a major issue. Then you cut things out and reassess your new situation. Or if you're into management systems PDCA. Plan, Do, Check, Act cycle used in quality circles and other functions too. You cannot take actions without knowing where you're at financially, environmentally, preparedness, etc.
As to lone pensioners I have little experience of that personal circumstances. I did live alone for a long time so I do know about that. I've had the £4 left in the bank and in my pockets with a week to payday while still needing to travel 8 miles to work. I've had situation a few times but I was still able to look at my expenditure for economies. I was still able to reduce activities that cost in favour of ones that doesn't cost that much or nothing. I bet you have gone through that cost reduction process in the past and no doubt are doing it continuously too. That's a positive approach IMHO.
However we all need to find a way of living that works for us. What works for you not me, scottieoutdoors or a anyone else. I do propose the idea that people need to look to your expenditure, habits, etc. To make sure there's little waste or unnecessary. With some that's possibly not going to lead to much improvement because the steps have been done already but that's no reason not to keep checking though.
