Survival strategies for those of us approaching 45? [View All]

Anyone have ideas for those of us approaching 45? I've been out of work since May 2008 - two years now. I've effectively given up trying to find work. To make matters worse, I have exhausted unemployment benefits, and the prospect of Tier 5 extensions are looking somewhat doubtful at this point. During my search, it seems the only hiring that is being done is among young people, those leaving college. Age discrimination is very real, folks. As I approach age 45, generally considered the end of 'youth' by any measure, I'm having real doubts about my ability to survive to retirement age. How are others similarly situated dealing with this? What are your strategies for survival?