The Web of Relationships That Sustains Solo Seniors
Donald Hammen, 80, has an understanding with his next-door neighbor, Julie McMahon. Every morning, she checks to see if he’s raised the blinds in his dining room window. If not, she’ll call him or let herself into his house to check on him. This web of relationships is crucial for Hammen, who lives alone and has no close family.
The Importance of Local Connections
American society assumes that families take care of their own, but 15 million Americans 50 and older didn’t have any close family in 2015, the latest year for which reliable estimates are available. By 2060, that number is expected to swell to 21 million. These older adults must seek assistance from other quarters when they need it, often turning to neighbors, friends, church members, or community groups.
The Role of Non-Family Helpers
When seniors living alone have no close family, can non-family helpers be an adequate substitute? This hasn’t been well studied. "We’re just beginning to do a better job of understanding that people have a multiplicity of connections outside their families that are essential to their well-being," said Sarah Patterson, a demographer and sociologist at the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan.
The Challenges of Solo Aging
Finding reliable local connections isn’t always easy. And non-family helpers may not be willing or able to provide consistent, intense hands-on care if that becomes necessary. According to a survey by AARP, only 25% of solo agers said they could count on someone to help them with daily tasks, and just 38% said they knew someone who could help manage ongoing care needs.
The Power of Community
Michelle Wallace, 75, a former technology project manager, lives alone in a single-family home in Broomfield, Colorado. She has worked hard to assemble a local network of support, cultivating relationships with several people she met through local groups for solo agers. Many have become her close friends. "In our 70s, solo agers are looking for support systems. And the scariest thing is not having friends close by," Wallace said. "It’s the local network that’s really important."
Conclusion
The lives of older adults living alone are a testament to the importance of community and local connections. While family is often the first line of support, it’s not always available or reliable. As the number of solo seniors grows, it’s crucial that we recognize the value of non-family helpers and work to build stronger, more supportive communities.
FAQs
Q: What is a solo senior?
A: A solo senior is an older adult who lives alone and has no close family, such as spouses, partners, or children.
Q: How many solo seniors are there in the United States?
A: According to the latest estimates, 15 million Americans 50 and older didn’t have any close family in 2015. By 2060, that number is expected to swell to 21 million.
Q: Can non-family helpers be an adequate substitute for family caregivers?
A: While non-family helpers can provide important support, they may not be willing or able to provide consistent, intense hands-on care if that becomes necessary.
Q: How can solo seniors build a support network?
A: Solo seniors can build a support network by reaching out to neighbors, friends, church members, or community groups. They can also join local groups or organizations that cater to solo seniors.
