In this paper we discuss interrelation between functional literacy of adults and their participation in contemporary society, and involvement in social life. The research is based on the results of PIAAC – Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competences. It was proposed earlier that people with lower level of literacy are in fact excluded from modern society and appear to be in so called “risk group” without job, but with broken health and vague life prospects. We did not find full confirmation for this hypothesis in Russia and at the same time we argue that position of highly literate adults in Russia seems to be much worse compared to similar people of OECD countries. We suggest hypothesis for further research and formulate recommendations for progress of adult education in Russia.