By Laura Hipshire
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

When it comes to saving for retirement, every penny counts. In a recent study of 2,500 people ages 45 to 64 published in AARP Magazine, 71% admitted  they are worried about having enough money for the retirement they envision.

Some retirees looking for ways to avoid such high bills have opted to live in retirement communities like Fox Run, in Novi, where one bill a month covers everything from utilities to maintenance to cable, plus many other amenities.

Consistent costs
According to a recent article in the Detroit Free Press, “A typical monthly  heating bill for a Michigan household is expected to go from an average of $140 a month to nearly $200 a month.” The article continues: “The cost of natural gas for the upcoming season is expected to average 46% more than it did last year.”

At Fox Run, residents pay a consistently priced monthly service package, which includes all of those skyrocketing utilities (except telephone).

“Each Erickson community pays [utilities] in one lump sum, which makes up the aggregate expenses per community. That amount is divided up among each residential unit to create the monthly service package,” says Joe Harsel, Erickson’s director of corporate and social responsibility.

“This method enables us to control and mitigate or soften any spike in one expense area or another, striking a balance that works for all parties involved. Keeping that amount at a predictable level allows Erickson to keep its monthly service package reasonable and within reach of the middle-income retiree,” Harsel explains.

Tailored travel
Aside from basic living expenses, retirees are considering travel expenses now too. With gas prices above $4 a gallon, simple trips to the grocery store or the bank are now on the minds of every American.