Inflation

Peter Dorman’s letter (July 10) states that “the only negative effect inflation can have on total real income is through the expenditure of time and energy by people trying to cope with it.”

When a retiree or other person has an income that is dependent on a fixed amount as a result of fixed pension or interest on fixed savings, there is a tremendous change in the standard of living because costs are reflected throughout the entire economy. This includes decreased buying power, additional strain on the incomes of government agencies and/or relatives, nursing home care, housing and food.

I tend to question the government statistics on the low inflation levels listed recently. They do not jibe with the prices I note in the markets and in housing.

ABBOTT ROSENBERG

Torrance