Many living alone face, for example, financial problems as the cost of living for one person is relatively higher than for larger households. Statistics show that a majority of low paid employees as well as 70 percent of welfare recipients live alone.

The chairperson of the Finnish Association of Single Residents, Raija Eva, also notes discrepancies can be found in the law and services affecting those living on their own.

”For example, the goal posts are different for single people with regards to certain benefits such as housing or other allowances. Those living alone also use municipal mental health services the most but their mode of living is never questioned,” points out Eva.

In her view, a society planned for families and for those living together is at the heart of the problem.

”Society expects that everyone can live alone. But it demands skill if one is not used to making big decisions alone or there is no-one to share one’s thoughts with,” adds Raija Eva.

The Finnish Association of Single Residents was set up in 2009 to champion the rights of those living alone. It aims to promote knowledge about those living on their own and influence changes to appropriate legislation.  

The largest single group of those living alone is men and women between the ages of 45 and 64. The number of solitary people aged over 75 is also on the rise.