New research reveals a stark picture of hardship among the UK's older population, with one in five forced to cut back on essentials like food and personal hygiene to manage soaring living costs.
A Crisis Hiding in Plain Sight
Age UK has issued a severe warning, stating that elderly individuals are taking "drastic measures" this winter. The charity's findings, based on a survey of over 2,600 people aged 65 and above conducted in October and November, show the extent of the struggle.
Alarmingly, the data indicates that around one in seven (15%) are bathing or showering less frequently, while one in twenty (5%) anticipate skipping meals to make their finances stretch further. Energy cuts are also widespread, with a third (33%) using less electricity and 35% turning down their heating.
Urgent Call to Claim Vital Support
In response, Age UK has launched its "crisis hiding in plain sight" campaign. It is urgently calling on all pensioners, both new and existing, to check if they are eligible for additional financial support, particularly Pension Credit.
This benefit is crucial as it tops up weekly income and acts as a gateway to other support, including help with council tax, NHS costs, and a free TV licence for those over 75. However, many miss out, often due to assumptions they won't qualify or finding the process daunting.
Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK, said: "As a country we need to do a lot more to tackle poverty among older people, a social ill set to worsen as our population ages we fear, unless something changes and soon."
Millions in Unclaimed Aid
Abrahams highlighted the tangible impact of support, revealing that in 2025 alone, the charity's national advice line helped 6,006 older people with benefit applications. This work identified more than £36 million in unclaimed support, averaging £5,900 per person.
"This year our ambition is to exceed that if we can," she added. "For any older person trying to live on a small retirement income, every single pound counts and even a small weekly top-up could make a tangible difference."
The charity fears up to two million pensioners could face poverty in the coming years if the situation does not improve. They stress there is "no room for complacency" in addressing this growing issue.
For those specifically struggling with energy bills, regulator Ofgem advises contacting your supplier immediately, as rules require them to help set up affordable payment plans.
