The greatest fear of many in this world is that they will die alone. As a consolation, people might respond by saying “There’s somebody out there for you” or “There’s someone for everyone”. That is a lie. In reality, it is an impossibility for everybody to have someone, and some will, in fact, die alone.

Statistically speaking, by 50 years of age, 25% of people in the United States will have been single for their entire lives. The average life expectancy in the United States is 71 years old. That is 21 years left of life on average. The chances of getting into a new relationship above 50 is 1 in 562, or a 0.0018% chance per day. So statistically, the chances are that you will likely end up dying without a significant other.

Do LD students think they will die alone? “I am unable to predict the future, but I hope to lead a life that successfully cultivates happy relationships and ends with myself being surrounded with people I love and care about,” Says Daphne Linn, junior. Jasmine Prieto, junior, also does not think this will happen. “I don’t think I will because I’m pretty sure I’m going to want a family when I’m older and hopefully my kids will be with me along with my spouse,” she said. 

It is likely difficult for many to accept the hand that they were dealt. They might be unhappy (or even miserable) for a span of months. Eventually, it all just becomes numb, with the only thing keeping them going being the hope that they will eventually find someone. For around 25% of people, however, the odds are against them.