New report sets out challenges faced by people growing older without children

A new report published today (11 June) by the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales reveals that a range of policy and legislation is ‘largely inadequate’ in responding to the needs of people growing older without children in Wales. 

The report highlights that growing older without children can bring many benefits, including strong social lives and connections with friends, neighbours, and community organisations; opportunities to build rich, diverse support networks and engage in community activities and volunteering; and financial stability.

However, people without children can also feel invisible, marginalised and ignored during discussions about ageing within a family-orientated society.

The report also finds that many policies and services assume the presence of some form of family support, which can create barriers in terms of accessing services and support such as health and social care, transport, social activities, education and cultural activities.

In addition, people growing older without children may also find themselves at greater risk of issues that can affect our ability to age well.

The report sets out why action is needed to address these issues as the number of older people without children is expected to increase significantly in the years ahead.

This action includes more targeted interventions, improvements to social support and innovative approaches to delivering care, building upon good practice that is already being piloted and delivered.

The Commissioner will also be holding an event later this year that will bring together key policy- and decision-makers in Wales to hear from older people about their experiences of growing older without children, examine the evidence within the report in more detail and explore practical ways to tackle the issues identified.

Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies, said:

“It is crucial that Wales responds effectively to the demographic changes we are seeing to ensure that we can access the services and support we may need as we grow older and have opportunities to live and age well, regardless of our circumstances.

“That’s why I commissioned this research, which examines people’s experiences of growing older without children and the kinds of action required to ensure their needs are better reflected across policy, planning and public service delivery.

“Publishing this report is an important step forward in ensuring the issues often faced by older people without children are recognised and addressed, and I will be sharing the findings with the Welsh Government, public bodies, service providers and other key organisations.

“I will also use this important evidence to support my work to influence policy and service design across Wales.

“To create services and communities that are inclusive and fit for the future, Wales must move beyond policy and practice based on outdated assumptions, recognising the needs of all older people – including those without children – something I will support and enable through my work.”

ENDS