Elderly Poverty in Germany Reaches Record High as Basic Income Support Rises

New data reveals a 7.1% increase in elderly Germans relying on basic income support in 2024, underscoring systemic pension challenges and rising living costs.

The number of elderly Germans receiving basic income support rose to 739,000 by the end of 2024, a 7.1% increase from the previous year.
Elderly recipients now account for 58.6% of all basic income support beneficiaries, highlighting the disproportionate impact on retirees.
Rising living costs, particularly for food and energy, continue to exacerbate financial struggles for older adults in Germany.
An above-average increase in standard rates for basic income support in January 2024 expanded eligibility and contributed to the rise in recipients.
Many retirees avoid applying for aid due to stigma or lack of awareness, leaving them vulnerable to poverty despite available support.