At What Age Orphan?

An orphan is typically defined as a child under the age of 18 who has lost one or both parents. When used in a broader sense, the word orphan applies to anyone who has lost their biological parents. Adult-age persons who have lost their parents can and still do identify themselves as orphans.

What age is considered orphan?

UNICEF and its global partners define an orphan as “a child under 18 years of age who has lost one or both parents to any cause of death.”

Can you be an orphan at 20?

While losing a parent at any age, especially as a young child, is enormous and profound, your 20s are a particularly odd time to become an orphan. You're too old to receive the structural support a child receives — no one finds you alternate parents or makes sure you have a roof over your head, food to eat.