If the dollar is falling in value then wage earners should see a reflection in higher hourly wages to maintain their same purchasing power.
Does not happen. Get increased wages may put you in another tax bracket reflecting very little gain.

This article is for 1950s minimum wage purchasing power. Make adjustments for different wage levels for purchasing power. Once you get at cost of living level the added income use to go for savings (retirement Or major purchases to stay away from credit costs) or a higher standard of living.

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/news/tms/politics/2009/Jul/23/minimum_wage_stuck_in_the_1950s.html

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/news/tms/politics/2009/Jul/23/
minimum_wage_stuck_in_the_1950s.html

Oh, I feel great now that I know I was just imagining that I was spending a lot more on gas.
What the hell was I thinking?
Gas is cheaper than ever!
Yes we can!
Si se puede, amigos!
Cuatro mas anos!

I can say it's a fact the wages and salaries is not keeping up with the cost of living in the USA. You can't live off these low paid jobs in this economy.