A silhouette of a senior woman stands thoughtfully by a window, conveying solitude.

In Japan, some people die alone and no one knows for weeks

One of the harshest signs of Japan’s aging society is kodoku-shi, or solitary death. Many elderly people live alone and isolated, and their deaths can go unnoticed for days, weeks, or longer.

Japan's Aging Society and Solitary Death

Spacious empty room with modern design featuring large window blinds and tiled floor.

The numbers are chilling

In the first half of 2024, police reported 37,227 people living alone were found dead at home. About 70% were 65 or older.

Japan's Aging Society and Solitary Death