The number of older adults living alone is increasing, with over 22 million older adults living alone and close to 30% of them having no children or family support. This group, known as Solo Agers, will now have their own day, SAVvy Day, on May 15 starting this year to raise awareness about their numbers and educate others on how to support them. The Baby Boom Generation saw an increase in childlessness due to the availability of reliable birth control and a shift towards choosing career over motherhood. This has led to a significant number of Solo Agers in society.
The aging Baby Boom cohort is facing a scarcity of caregivers, as family members are expected to be in shorter supply for the aging Boomers. The ratio of caregivers to care recipients has been falling, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years. Solo Agers represent a large percentage of those who will need senior housing and care. Solo Agers have unique challenges and concerns when it comes to figuring out how and where their care will come from in their final days.
The makeup of American society has changed with the rise of what is termed the “family diaspora,” where adult children leave home in search of job opportunities and a different lifestyle, often living far away from their parents. This trend has led to many parents feeling like Solo Agers even though they have children. Solo Agers need to plan for a time when they may not be able to easily visit friends or attend social gatherings, in order to avoid loneliness and isolation as they age.
For Solo Agers, planning for the future and potential isolation is crucial. Financial planners, organizations, and agencies around the country are available to provide support and guidance for Solo Agers. With the increasing awareness of Solo Aging, there are resources available to help Solo Agers plan for their future and ensure their safety, security, and wellbeing. SAVvy Day aims to bring attention to the unique challenges faced by Solo Agers and provide information on how to support them as they age.
