Issues for those living alone
There are many people who live alone in Australia. As people are living longer so will the numbers of those who live on their own – either by choice or by circumstance. Many of these individuals are elderly. However, the number of those living alone in their 50’s and older is increasing, as is the number of young adults who choose to live alone.
Likely common Issues for people living alone
With people generally living longer, many are outliving spouses, friends and other family members. The older people are the fewer social supports are likely to exist especially if they are living alone. Isolation and loneliness can be a problem. Some older people will withdraw from social contacts through their own choice. Some will enjoy the solitude and independence of living alone but others won’t. Some will be living with mental illness or with chronic diseases. Not all of those living alone will be managing financially.
Managing at home alone when someone is well is different to managing alone when they are ill or dying. For short illnesses the person may be able to call on family and friends to help out. This is not always manageable for long periods however. People who can help out may have other responsibilities such as at work or at home, or they may have their own health related issues.
Support at home
When someone is dying they need increasing amounts of help. This is the same whether they live alone or not. There is the opportunity to be cared for 24 hours a day at home if family and friends are able to contribute much of the care. Referral to community palliative care is also an option for many people. With careful planning and support, in conjunction with GPs and community nurses, these services can help people better plan for being at home as long as they can. They can also help make arrangements for care as an inpatient if this is needed.
The alternative to having family or social support is often to pay for care at home. This can come at a significant financial cost. There are a number of home support agencies who are able to help coordinate care at home. With respite, alarm pendants or home alert systems and after hours support some people will be able to be cared for at home alone. In some areas, funded palliative care and /or aged care packages can provide different forms of support. Community health services provide different forms of practical support as do some local councils and church groups. This may take the form of domestic help, help with shopping, providing equipment or help with transportation. Some organisations have volunteers who can help in different ways.
If someone wants to be cared for or die at home, it can be difficult if they don’t have this help and support. The result will often be more admissions to hospital when problems arise. Residential Aged Care Facility accommodation may be required, so that all care needs can be adequately met.
Not everyone wants to be cared for or die at home. Some people prefer to be in a hospital or hospice or similar environment. Being able to participate in conversations about where to be cared for or die is important. It is good to be prepared and make plans. However, once made, plans and decisions can always be changed. Circumstances and choices at one point in time may not be appropriate or relevant later on.
Disease specific resources
This page was created on 15 March 2010. *