Research into people’s experiences of growing older without children

We are seeing a significant demographic shift in terms of the number of people growing older without children, something that is expected to increase significantly in the years ahead.

It is crucial that policy- and decision-makers respond effectively to these changes to ensure that regardless of our circumstances we can access the services and support we may need as we grow older and have opportunities to live and age well.

That’s why I commissioned this report, which draws upon a wide range of available research to examine 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.

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.

Similarly, many policies – even those purported to be person-centred – 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.

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 policy and legislation that is largely inadequate in responding to the specific needs of people growing older without children, highlighting the need for more targeted interventions, improvements to social support and innovative approaches to delivering care that build upon good practice that is already being piloted and delivered.

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

I will also be holding a webinar event later in the year which will bring together key policy- and decision-makers 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.

To create services and communities that are inclusive and fit for the future, it’s crucial that Wales moves beyond policy and practice based on outdated assumptions, recognising the needs of all older people – including those without children – something I will be supporting through this work.

Rhian Bowen-Davies // Older People’s Commissioner for Wales