Poverty among older Americans has risen five years in a row, data shows

(InvestigateTV) — Poverty among older Americans has climbed for the fifth year in a row, according to new Census data, even as overall poverty went down.

Claire Casey, president of the AARP Foundation, said affordability is now a top concern for older adults.

“So it’s actually risen 20%, the rate of poverty for people over 65,” Casey said.

AARP’s new Economic Security Monitor found 70% of older households saw their expenses go up in three months.

Anthony Hamalainen, 67, of Marquette, Michigan, said older adults on fixed incomes are among those hit hardest.

“I mean, I’m sure there’s other people are struggling too, but the seniors are really hitting it really super bad because they live on a fixed income. Most of them do,” Hamalainen said.

Hamalainen owned a wireless installation company, but a fall from a roof in 2006 left him unable to work. When he was ready to return to work in his 50s, he struggled to find a job because of his disability and his age.

He began receiving Social Security after the accident, but medical bills and other expenses piled up. He gets by on just over $1,000 a month, plus $40 in SNAP benefits. He says it gets harder every year.

“I run out of money each month. I mean, it’s just ridiculous. It’s really hard for us to live,” Hamalainen said.

Casey offered this advice to older adults who are concerned about making it through right now.

“I would say don’t think about an age. Think about what you want in your life and what you can do and then seek out the resources that are out there to help you,” Casey said.

Hamalainen is now training with AARP to help other seniors find jobs.

AARP offers free resources for older adults who are struggling to pay bills. The group also recommends checking with local, state and federal programs that may be able to help.