While most people look forward to that day when they can sit back and retire, doing so in Israel is becoming increasingly difficult for a growing number of people 65-years-old and older.

According to a Central Bureau of Statistics report on the elderly, while 29% of citizens 65 and over expressed difficulty “finishing the month” (making ends meet), in 2011 that figure rose to 33.7%. In 2010 there were 77,500 families age 65 + living under the poverty line, and that number increased in 2011 to 78,800. The average monthly income of this age group in 2010 was 11,428 NIS and in 2011 it dropped to 10,149 NIS.

At the end of 2011, there were 804,500 citizens 65 and older and the rate of growth of this age group is twice any other age segment in society. According to Prof. Yossi Tamir of the Myers – JDC – Brookdale Institute 17% of the 65 and older community is living in poverty. Among the childless elderly couples, that number increases to 22%.

Prof. Tamir explains the 10,149 NIS monthly average salary refers to gross, not net, and this figure is below the national average of 14,629 NIS. Primary expenses for the average elderly person is for rent (30.5%), food (16.1%) and health (8%). Prior to receiving government assistance payments there are 225,000 families (57%) headed by one 65 and older. That number drops significantly after assistance arrives, to 20% of the families. For the women it is considerably more difficult as the average 65+ woman earns 2,000 NIS monthly less than the men; 4,197 NIS as opposed to 6,192 NIS.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)