One in seven people aged 65 and over has been turning to loans and credit cards to make ends meet during the cost of living crisis, according to a survey
. The Independent Age charity said its research suggests many older people are struggling alone and racking up debt as costs escalate.
Veteran radio DJ Tony Blackburn, 80, who is supporting the campaign, said: "There's a misconception that everyone in later life enjoys a financially comfortable retirement. The hidden reality is that more than two million older people in the UK live in poverty. The findings come shortly after Age UK warned a "great un-retirement" could be getting underway as rising living costs force people to change their later life plans.
Top Money Stories Today John Palmer, from the charity, said: "These findings clearly show why our renewed focus on financial hardship in later life is desperately needed. Every day, we receive harrowing calls from frightened older people who are worried about their finances, but it is clear that many more are struggling alone and relying on credit cards and loans as costs continue to escalate.
Older people who want to check if they are eligible for certain benefits can call the Independent Age helpline free on 0800 319 6789. In just a few minutes you could find out how much you may be able to claim in extra support, just by entering details about yourself, your residential status, your working status and any savings you have.Latest State Pension News Where to find help Advice Direct Scotland This online tool is the first to fully integrate devolved benefits, including the Scottish Child Payment.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Building resilient brains: strategies for promoting brain health in older adultsBuilding resilient brains: strategies for promoting brain health in older adults LancetLongevity brainhealth brain health publichealth prevention
Read more »
Seafood consumption linked to lower risk of cardiometabolic multimorbidity in older menSeafood consumption linked to lower risk of cardiometabolic multimorbidity in older men Heart Cardiometabolic Multimorbidity DietQuality OlderMen Health ResearchStudy PublicHealth ejcneditor
Read more »
Independent Bookshop Week: Our writers' favourite paperbacksIt's IndependentBookshopWeek and Team Weekend are waxing lyrical about their favourite novels and memoirs. What's your most treasured literary delight?
Read more »
Church of England sacks independent abuse panelThey were dismissed by a council of senior bishops after two members said their work was obstructed.
Read more »
Artificial intelligence is a familiar-looking monster, say Henry Farrell and Cosma Shalizi“The modern world has been built by and within monsters,” argue the academics. How will AI change the balance? “We need to start finding out”
Read more »
Everything Kim Cattrall has said about her 14-year age gap romanceThe Sex and the City star is currently dating Russell Thomas
Read more »