A growing generation of older men is facing a future of increased isolation. Meanwhile, the number of older men aged 65+ living alone is projected to rise by 65% between now and 2030.
Findings
- The number of older men living alone is expected to rise from 911,000 to 1.5 million by 2030.
- Older men are more socially isolated than older women.
- Older men have significantly less contact with their children, family and friends than older women.
- The number of older men outliving their partners is expected to grow.
Selected recommendations
- Men approaching later life need to make efforts to retain and build their social network among friends, families and interest groups.
- Support services should be designed with older men’s interests in mind.
- Local authorities should improve efforts to identify older people who are potentially most at risk of social isolation and loneliness.