There is a segment of the Baby Boomer generation that is at risk of becoming “elder orphans.” These people are senior citizens, childless, and unmarried, either by choice or by having lost their spouse over the years. When these seniors become unable to care for themselves, finding senior care for them becomes quite difficult, simply because there is no caring and loving person there to lead the charge toward finding them the best care possible. It is currently estimated that almost one quarter of people age 65 or older fit this description.
This is a vulnerable group of people, and they need special attention in order to get the care that they deserve. Maybe you have an older relative with friends that fit this description. Perhaps you know of a neighbor, or a family friend that does. It’s certainly not your duty to find them senior care, but it may be considered a nice gesture to assist them if it becomes necessary.
At the very least, situations like this need to be reported to your local senior protective services. This doesn’t mean that you are being a tattle tale, or sending the person in question off to an old folk’s home, but rather, helping them to stay safe in the event that the situation worsens without anyone’s knowledge. Elderly people often find themselves cut off from social situations. It’s very sad, but it can happen, especially as the few friends and family members that they do have move away or pass away. If you know of a situation like this, notifying your county’s authorities will ensure that any elder orphans in your vicinity stay safe by having someone check up on them every once in a while. It’s a simple and easy thing to do, and it could help them to live a longer and happier life.
There is a concern that this population will grow over the years, especially as the population ages. The average age of the population in the United States is getting older and older, and as science and medicine improve, this is a trend that will only grow. It makes sense that people will find themselves childless and single on an increasing basis. Awareness and advocacy can deter this, and it’s something that needs to start sooner rather than later. There’s not really a great structure in place to address this need in most communities, but the sooner the problem receives more attention, the faster safeguards can be put in place to help the elderly in our communities.
As a family member, you have certain obligations to your parents. Finding them the right kind of senior care is one of them. It doesn’t matter if it’s in-home care or a nursing home, getting them the right level of help is a must. You don’t have the same obligation to senior citizens that you don’t know well. Still, helping them help your family down the road if something like this were to occur within your family. Also, it’s a small gesture of kindness that can have very positive results.
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