CRI

 [ABSTRACT]

The proportion of households headed by individuals aged 65 and older―defined in this study as 'older adult households'―has been steadily increasing due to extended life expectancy and shifting family caregiving values. In 2023, older adult households accounted for 25.1% of all households, and this figure is projected to rise to 49.8% by 2050. Recognizing the living conditions of older adult households is crucial for developing effective welfare policies. This study examines the economic and social conditions of older adult households, along with the characteristics of their heads, to propose targeted policy directions.

The study categorizes older adult households into seven types—single-person households, couple-only households, single older adult households, co-residence with unmarried children, co-residence with grandchildren, co-residence with married children, and others—using data from the 17th Korean Welfare Panel Survey. Existing statistics, previous studies, and central and local government policies regarding care, housing, and income were also reviewed to contextualize the findings.

The analysis highlights several policy implications. First, single-person households, which comprise 40.5% of all older adult households, remain the most vulnerable and require enhanced and comprehensive support to ensure their independence. Second, couple-only households show higher life satisfaction but necessitate preemptive policies to mitigate future risks, such as transitioning into single-person households. Third, single older adult households benefit from accessing social welfare services, underscoring the need for ongoing community-based service linkage and monitoring.

As older adults increasingly prefer not to live with their children, co-residence with unmarried children presents psychological and emotional challenges, necessitating tailored support. Similarly, households co-residing with grandchildren, though accounting for only 1.4%, face complex vulnerabilities requiring active outreach. Finally, the low utilization rates of welfare services such as meal delivery, home care, and transportation indicate an urgent need for improved accessibility and tailored service provision.

Given Chungcheongbuk-do’s relatively high proportion of older adult households, this study underscores the importance of region-specific policy interventions tailored to the distinct needs of each household type to enhance the well-being of older adults.