ABSTRACT
The typical couple of two generations ago had a life expectancy that enabled them to live together for approximately 31 years after marriage, 2 years short of the time when their fifth child was expected to marry. As a result of declining family size and the improved survival prospects of the American population since 1900, the typical husband and wife of today are likely to see all their children marry and in all probability have one-fourth of their married life yet to live when the last child leaves home. Thus, by the time most married couples are approaching the age of retirement their children have already matured, married, and established independent households. Consequently, the typical older family today comprises simply the husband and wife. Approximately two-thirds of all aged persons are husband-wife couples living alone, most of whom maintain their own households.
