Older Australians Face Ageism and Cost of Living Crisis

Ageism and the Cost of Living Crisis: Australian Women Share Their Stories Australia is facing a dual crisis: ageism and the cost of living. Two women, Charlotte Kaye and Vanessa Zuleta, recently shared their experiences on ABC's Q+A program, illustrating the struggles faced by older Australians. Their stories highlight the urgent need for policy changes to address these issues. Kaye, a woman in her 50s, described the difficulties she faces finding employment. "No one wants to employ me, unfortunately, at my age," she stated. She detailed receiving a weekly wage of $500, with $450 going towards rent, leaving her with only $50 to live on. This situation is not uncommon, she emphasized. Zuleta, also a senior citizen, spoke about the financial difficulties her family faces after her husband's retirement during the COVID-19 pandemic. She stressed the immense worry about housing affordability in Australia, stating, "There's no way we're all able to afford housing in Australia on our own." Her experience reflects the broader anxieties of many older Australians struggling with rental stress and the threat of homelessness. These stories underscore the need for greater support and policy changes to protect older Australians from age discrimination and the pressures of the cost of living crisis. The Australian government must address these issues to ensure a more equitable and secure future for all its citizens.