This paper first looks at the contexts and situation of Finnish adult education in basic mathematical skills. Challenges for and observations of adults' learning of basic mathematics in Finland will be illustrated. Studying mathematics and numeracy are considered against its role in social and personal empowerment. Case studies of Finnish adults' experiences of and personal empowerment by learning mathematics are described by using interview data from two different learning contexts. The first case study deals with older women taking basic mathematics courses in a folk high school and the second one describes learning and teaching of basic mathematics in a prison. Finally, suggestions are offered for future perspectives and education research on adults' basic skills in mathematics in Finland.