Older Adults Without Close Family Connections Face Unique Challenges

Why it matters locally: With a significant population of older adults, California communities and state agencies are increasingly looking at adaptations in social services and support networks to address the growing needs of 'solo agers' across the state.

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A demographic of older adults is navigating the aging process without the immediate support of children or a spouse. Experts identify this group as "solo agers." These individuals face the prospect of later life without a primary family caregiver. Carl Smigielski, 61, exemplifies this experience. He is single following the death of his husband, Moshe, in 2019. Smigielski anticipates aging without a family member to rely on for support. One expert describes this situation as a societal reality that requires support, rather than a problem demanding a solution. The increasing number of solo agers indicates a need for adaptations in how communities and services address the needs of an aging population. Changes designed to assist solo agers could ultimately benefit a wider segment of society.