Meet the Inspiring 81-Year-Old Home Depot Worker Who Supports Herself and Her 90-Year-Old Husband

Lydia Hinds, 81, feels the weight of her responsibilities every day. Recently, she returned home from her job at Home Depot, where she spent hours helping customers and cleaning. Her energy waned, and she clocked out an hour early, feeling trapped yet unable to stop working. “I can’t stop,” she says. “But I feel guilty because Bill can’t contribute due to his health.”

Bill, 90, wishes he could help more. Lydia’s heart problems make their situation tough. If she lost her $300 weekly pay, their finances would crumble. A recent weekend saw them with just 44 cents in savings, leaving their dinner options uncertain.

They dread their mounting expenses. Lydia proudly displays a certificate from Home Depot, recognizing her work dedication despite her struggles, including past promotions. However, each month brings anxiety about meeting their $1,400 rent and a car payment of $625.

Lydia is not alone. Over half a million Americans over 80 still work, a figure that has risen in the last decade as many cannot afford to retire. The fastest-growing segment of the workforce is those 75 and older, with a sharp increase in this age group opting to continue working. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this demographic is twice as likely to work now compared to the early 1990s.

Carly Roszkowski from AARP confirms this trend. “A lot of older adults choose to work because of necessity,” she explains, pointing to rising living costs and health challenges.

Lydia’s experiences echo those of many seniors. More than 90 older workers shared that financial concerns and health issues often keep them at their jobs. Lydia and Bill’s combined income of $4,600 barely covers their essential costs.

The Hindses encapsulate a shared struggle among older Americans. Despite diligent financial planning, unforeseen expenses often disrupt their stability. Research highlights how the number of older adults facing high housing costs has been increasing steadily for years; many spend over 30% of their income on housing.

Reflecting on her past, Lydia wishes she had made small savings early on. “Just $20 a week could have added up,” she muses. She recalls how, after her health struggles during the pandemic, she sought employment at Home Depot at 79. Lydia’s heart condition was a shock; she had hoped to enjoy her retirement years instead.

Experience shows that many older workers face unique challenges. Age-related biases and fewer job opportunities often lead them to low-paying positions. Insights from research fellow Beth Truesdale point out that many older people are forced out of the labor market due to health issues or caregiving duties.

When asked how they cope, the couple emphasizes the importance of their relationship. “We’re each other’s support,” Lydia affirms. This bond is vital for navigating their challenges. Though financial worry looms large, they find joy in simple moments, like dancing to music from Bill’s past and reminiscing about their intertwined lives.

Despite recent hardships — including a dip in their savings due to medical costs — they remain hopeful of finding a more comfortable living situation. Bill fears that without Lydia, his stability would wane, reflecting a deep emotional tether.

For the Hindses and many older Americans, the need to work stems not just from financial necessity but from an enduring desire to feel valued and connected in their communities.



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