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1.9 Million Elderly in Poverty: Urgent Action Needed

1/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Age UK warns that 1.9 million elderly people live in poverty, a number expected to exceed two million without intervention.
Research shows that 33% of people over 65 are using less electricity.
35% are reducing heating this winter.
About £6 billion in pension credit is projected to go unclaimed in 2025/26.
Caroline Abrahams, Age UK's director, says easier access to benefits is needed to relieve older adults' financial strain.

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Story summary

Age UK warns that 1.9 million elderly people live in poverty, a number expected to exceed two million without intervention.
Research shows that 33% of people over 65 are using less electricity.
35% are reducing heating this winter.
About £6 billion in pension credit is projected to go unclaimed in 2025/26.
Caroline Abrahams, Age UK's director, says easier access to benefits is needed to relieve older adults' financial strain.