November 15, 2024
Older Americans living alone often rely on neighbors or others willing to help
In 2015, the latest year for which reliable estimates are available, millions of older Americans didn’t have close family and lived alone. Most lived alone. By 2060, that number is expected to swell to 21 million. In addition, millions of seniors who do have children don’t live geographically close to them, or have complicated relationships, making asking for support difficult. These older adults turn to friends, neighbors, church, and other community members when they need help. Sarah Patterson says, ““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.”