Entitlement programs are the main driver of our budget crisis. Despite the fact that promises have been made and workers have paid money into the system, we need to slowly phase out these programs and transition the important safety net functions of them into more affordable programs.
We need to phase out the use of Social Security as a retirement system. If any capable individual is unable to pay for their own retirement, then they should continue to work for as long as they are able. If they become disabled, then government assistance will be provided, but only for life necessities, not for luxuries, conveniences, recreation, etc. Support currently provided by Medicare would be rolled into the new disability program.