No older person should have to choose between heating and eating
Published on 11 May 2026 01:20 PM
3.4 million pensioners, more than one in four, are struggling financially and nearly half of them have been struggling for three years or more,
More than one in four pensioners across Great Britain are struggling financially, according to new research released by Age UK, with many older people facing long-term financial hardship as the cost of essentials continues to rise.
The new report by Age UK, Fragile budgets, difficult choices, highlights the difficult decisions many older people are being forced to make to get by, particularly around heating, food and household bills.
It highlights that energy costs remain one of the biggest pressures on older people’s finances in 2026, with average bills still more than £500 higher each year than they were at the end of 2021.
Research found that nearly seven in 10 pensioners (69%) said they would rather turn off their heating than fall into debt.
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One in five cutting back on food due to rising prices
Among the 3.4 million pensioners who said they were struggling financially, almost half said they had been struggling for three years or longer.
The report also found that:
- One in five pensioners said they had cut back on food and groceries to cope financially
- Older renters, disabled people and women were among those most affected
- Many older people are continuing to live on low fixed incomes while prices remain high
At Age UK East Sussex, we know many older people locally are also worried about rising living costs and the impact this can have on their health, wellbeing and independence.
Cost of Living Support East Sussex County Council have set up a support page with help and advice around the cost of living crisis. They provide information and advice on what support is there for East Sussex residents.
Can our I&A team help you?
No one should feel they have to struggle alone, and support is available across East Sussex for older people who are finding things difficult financially.
If you or someone you love could be missing out on vital financial support that is available to them, get in touch with our I&A team and we will help you access that financial support.
Email: information@ageukeastsussex.org.uk
Telephone: 01273 476 704
Don't struggle alone
Caroline Abrahams CBE, Charity Director at Age UK, said:
“This research shows beyond any doubt that vast numbers of older people are so determined not to get into debt that they would rather be cold in their own homes, even if they jeopardise their health by turning off their heating when it’s chilly.”
We are encouraging anyone worried about money, heating bills or day-today living costs to get in touch for free, confidential support.
Our Information & Advice team can help older people check whether they may be entitled to additional financial support, including Pension Credit, Attendance Allowance and help with energy costs. We can also provide advice on managing household bills and accessing local support services.
You can contact our Information & Advice team on 01273 476 704
or email information@ageukeastsussex.org.uk.
Try our free Benefits Calculator
People living in East Sussex can use our free online Benefits Calculator to check what financial support you may be entitled to. The calculator is free, anonymous and can help identify benefits you may not realise you are entitled to.
Research by Age UK also found that many older people do not seek financial advice because they are unsure what support is available or do not think they would qualify.
However, even small increases in income through benefits or grants can make a significant difference for overall quality of life, so please do check if you are eligible.