New research has exposed a stark reality for many older people across the UK, who are being forced to take drastic measures to manage their finances this winter. The charity Age UK warns that a significant number of pensioners are cutting back on essentials like heating, electricity, and even personal hygiene and food.
The Harsh Reality of Pensioner Poverty
A survey commissioned by Age UK, conducted by Yonder in October and November, paints a concerning picture. It found that 33% of people aged 65 and over are using less electricity to make ends meet. An even higher proportion, 35%, are turning their heating down for the same reason.
More alarmingly, the data shows that around one in seven (15%) older people are having baths or showers less often to save money. Furthermore, one in 20 (5%) admitted they would be skipping meals this winter to help with their budgets. These findings form part of the charity's 'crisis hiding in plain sight' campaign, which aims to highlight the often-invisible struggles of the ageing population.
A Call to Claim Vital Financial Support
Age UK is issuing a strong call to action, urging every new and existing pensioner to check their eligibility for financial support they may be missing out on. The charity emphasises that there is "no room for complacency" regarding poverty among older people, with fears that up to two million pensioners could be living in poverty in the coming years.
Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK, stated: "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." She highlighted the tangible difference support can make, revealing that in 2025, the charity's national advice line identified over £36 million in unclaimed support for 6,006 people, averaging £5,900 per person.
The primary benefit in focus is Pension Credit, which tops up weekly income and acts as a gateway to other help. Age UK notes that many older people miss out simply because they assume they won't qualify or find the application process daunting without assistance.
Practical Steps and Broader Support
For those struggling with energy bills specifically, the energy regulator Ofgem provides guidance on its website. It advises anyone worried about paying their bills to contact their supplier as soon as possible, as suppliers are required to work with customers to agree on an affordable payment plan.
Age UK's campaign for 2026 is clear: it is strongly encouraging all pensioners to proactively check what they are entitled to, apply early, and spread the word to others. "For any older person trying to live on a small retirement income, every single pound counts," added Abrahams, underscoring that even a small weekly top-up can have a profound impact on quality of life.
