Never in the history of humankind have so many people lived alone, whether by choice or not. Solo senior citizens top the list of these social innovators. Our newfound human longevity has resulted in a tidal wave of senior citizens, half of whom live alone. Time is theirs to fill, and they know it. According to the experts, this group is in better shape, increasingly well off and more highly educated than preceding generations. Today’s seniors are flexible in body and mind. Some, thanks to the latest state-of-the-art robotics: anything goes that can help the new seniors meet the challenge of living longer, alone.

In Canada, France, Switzerland and Japan, we meet Edna, Betty, Fernand, Yvon, Tornsten, Eva, Linda, Yukie and others who share their strategies for autonomous living, while reflecting on concerns about health, relationships and work. Their vitality and life choices, along with their newfound passions, are worth the detour. Yet how are our societies preparing to meet the onslaught of this human tidal wave?