Scotland now has the highest percentage of single-person households in the UK, a trend largely attributed to its ageing population, according to recent NRS (National Records of Scotland) data. Many of these single-person households comprise older adults living independently, often due to factors such as bereavement or family moving away.
Age Scotland highlights that this demographic faces unique challenges, from housing affordability to increased feelings of loneliness and isolation. Over half of Scotland’s over-50s report feelings of loneliness, with rural areas experiencing even higher rates due to limited access to services and community resources.
For older adults, staying connected with others is essential to both mental and physical well-being. However, financial pressures, like the cost-of-living crisis, mean that many are cutting back on social activities. This underscores the need for additional support systems, whether through community initiatives or technology solutions that provide safety and connectivity.
Jon Smith, co-founder of Halo Personal Alarm, explains, “Our goal at Halo is to give older adults the freedom to live independently while ensuring that help is never far away. We understand that living alone can sometimes mean facing emergencies without immediate support, and that’s where we come in. With Halo, users and their families can have peace of mind, knowing help is always just a button press away.”
Smith adds, “As we see more older people choosing to live alone, we want to ensure they have the resources they need to feel connected and safe. Whether it’s for immediate assistance in an emergency or simply the reassurance of knowing someone’s there, we believe in making a difference in people’s lives every day.”
For older people in single-person households, Halo Personal Alarm offers a lifeline—one that keeps them connected and supported while maintaining the independence they value.
