Whether you're retired, still working or in school, be concerned about Social Security and Medicare, because they are in trouble.

If you're like 170 million Americans who contribute to Social Security and Medicare, or one of the 54 million who rely on both, you should demand to know the candidates' plans.The presidential elections are around the corner, so it's a great opportunity for older Americans to speak up and ask each candidate how they plan to save Medicare and Social Security.Since every 18 seconds the over 65 population increases by one person, the answers are critical. At the moment, the total count is close to 49,445,000, and it's expected to grow to 83 million by 2050.For this reason, Mrs. Clinton, and Mr. Trump, I want to know, "What is your vision for older adults, and what role will the government play in our behalf?The recent trustee report shows that retirees could face a reduction in Social Security payments after 2035. As president, what actions would you take on to save it? Would you increase the payroll tax rate, reduce benefits, privatize the retirement program, or none of the above? If the latter, what is the alternative?Both trust funds show the two will exhaust: Medicare by 2024 under today's law, and the Social Security by 2033.In the case of Medicare, would you permit reforms in the Affordable Care Act to change how the medical systems deliver care? Will you continue to penalize hospitals if a patient returns within the 30-day window following surgery? Would you encourage health care systems to increase coverage for preventive care? How else do you propose to save Medicare?So many seniors worry about the high costs of drugs. What do you think about the Medicare Part D prescription drug program? And what would you do about the rising costs of prescription meds? What's your plan to eliminate the shortfall?Carol Marak, aging advocate, columnist, speaker and editor at Seniorcare.com.