Toronto documentary highlights challenges of aging alone

A new documentary focuses on the lives of older adults in Canada who are aging alone. These individuals, often called "solo agers" or "elder orphans," face unique challenges. In Canada, about 10% of older adults do not have a spouse or children. Filmmaker Jatinder Dhillon highlights the experiences of three Torontonians in the documentary. As people retire, they may lose contact with coworkers and friends. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, which is a serious health issue. Research shows that being isolated can harm both physical and mental health. The documentary aims to shed light on the difficulties solo agers encounter, as well as the opportunities their situation can create. Many Canadians are navigating life without traditional family support. This raises important questions about how to help seniors maintain their independence when they lack close relatives. The project is part of a wider series produced by the Toronto Star in collaboration with Toronto Metropolitan University and the National Institute on Ageing.