Family in Many Forms

Every year, International Day of Families (May 15) reminds us of the importance of close loved ones. But family doesn’t look the same for everyone—and it doesn’t have to. For older adults especially, “family” often grows beyond traditional definitions. It can include neighbors who check in, friends who share meals, caregivers who offer daily support, and community members who bring connection and meaning. These relationships are not secondary; they are essential.

What’s a family today

Changing demographics, longer life expectancy, and increased mobility are reshaping family structures worldwide. Diverse types of households are growing while extended familial homes are shrinking. More people are choosing to live alone. Depending on location, as many as one in four seniors live on their own with women being more likely to be in a solo household.

Yet, social connection is a key factor in healthy aging. One quarter of those 65 and older report loneliness. Research links loneliness and social isolation to increased heart disease, stroke, diabetes, dementia, depression, and premature death. In fact, the impact on health is like smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Staying engaged with others reduces the risks.

In other words: who shows up matters more than how they’re related.

A wide(r) circle of support

In many cultures, aging has always been a shared experience. Families, locals, and communities play active roles in supporting older adults. Today, even as people live more independently, we recognize how interconnection is essential. Support networks for older adults often include:

• Neighbors who notice changes and offer quick help
• Friends who provide emotional support and shared experiences
• Faith or community groups that create belonging and routine

Studies suggest a minimum of four to six relationships are beneficial. Dr. Julianne Holt-Lunstad, professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University advises, “Different relationships can fulfill different kinds of needs. Just like you need a variety of foods to get a variety of nutrients, you need a variety of types of people in your life.”

Before building new connections, it helps to see what’s already there. Try this simple exercise:

• List the people currently in your support network.
• Identify each person’s role. For example:
  • Emotional support (someone you can talk to)
  • Practical help (rides, errands, meals)
  • Health support (caregivers, providers)
  • Social connection (shared activities, companionship)
• As you review your connections, gently ask:
  • Where do I feel supported?
  • Where are there gaps?
  • Where could one small connection make a difference?

Once you see your circle, you can begin to expand or strengthen it, one step at a time. Here are simple, realistic ways to build connections:

• Start small and local
  • Introduce yourself to a neighbor
  • Exchange phone numbers “just in case”
  • Join a nearby walking group or coffee meetup
• Reconnect with purpose
  • Reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while
  • Suggest a recurring check-in (weekly call, monthly Zoom) with a distant loved one
  • Share an activity with someone near or far, like watching the same show or reading the same book
• Use existing spaces differently
  • Join an older adult program at a library or place of worship
  • Participate at an intergenerational event at a community center
  • Volunteer for a cause or activity that’s important to you
• Make the routine shared
  • Invite someone for a meal, to run an errand, or attend a show
  • Begin a local hobby or book club

Remember: support goes both ways. Offering help can be just as meaningful as receiving it. Small acts build trust and connection over time.

At Home Care Assistance, we see every day how meaningful these extended networks can be. Caregivers don’t replace existing relationships; they help strengthen and connect them. A professional caregiver might:

• Notice when someone hasn’t heard from a friend and encourage reconnection
• Support communication between family members across distance
• Encourage participation in community activities
• Provide consistency that allows other relationships to feel less overwhelming

For loved ones and families, this extra support means care becomes more sustainable. For older adults, support feels more complete and personal.

Aging well isn’t just about care. It’s about connection. And family, in all its forms, makes that possible.

Connect with us to see how we can help expand your care circle.

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Sources: UN; N-IUSSP; Pew Research Center; WHO; Frontiers; MJA; NYT