Strong, Independent, and Not Alone: Rethinking Solo Aging

If you or someone you love is navigating older adulthood “solo,” you’re in good company. The AARP reports that 21% of U.S. adults age 50 and older live alone without a spouse or partner. And this number is growing fast.

This group of older adults, sometimes called “solo agers,” is charting a new course for retirement. By definition, solo agers don’t have the traditional support of family or children close by. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t enjoying purposeful and happy lives.

For many, solo aging can bring great joy and fulfillment. It can also present some challenges and opportunities along the way. Here’s a closer look at this growing trend and how planning and community can play a vital role.

The Joy of Independence

Connection and contentment can come in many forms. For those who are living solo, having the freedom to create their own social lives and routines can be empowering.

This may include taking up a new hobby, joining a gym, pursuing different social opportunities, or enjoying quiet time at home.

According to the AARP:

• • • 35% of solo agers say that freedom and autonomy are the best things about living solo
    • 64% say their physical health is excellent or good, and
    • 81% rate their mental health just as highly

When Independence Gets Complicated

Even for the most enthusiastic solo agers, the natural rhythm of life can bring gradual changes in health, mobility, and cognition. Also, some solo agers may struggle with feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can intensify when health declines.

In these times, solo agers may turn to a “patchwork” of sources for support. For example, they may rely on a sibling, neighbor, friend, or grown nieces and nephews. They may also turn to community groups, such as places of worship, or paid caregivers for help.

The Planning Gap

One challenge that can occur among solo agers is a planning gap. People may worry about losing their independence or having to leave their longtime home.

They may also feel overwhelmed by planning and put off making medical, financial, or legal decisions. In some cases, they may delay asking for help for fear of being a burden or appearing dependent.

Rethinking What Support Can Look Like

It can be helpful to remember that support doesn’t have to mean dependence. In fact, it can mean just the opposite. Getting support for changing needs can often allow older adults to maintain their independence and keep doing the things they love.

Along with asking for help, choosing where to live can play a role. For some people, this may involve downsizing or making modifications in their home. In other cases, moving to a retirement living community can provide built-in, reliable support that can adapt to changing needs.

A New Perspective on Senior Living

Now more than ever, moving to a senior living community can be part of a proactive and enriching life plan for people as they age. It is not a last resort. Instead, it’s a choice that can help older adults find connections and continue their independence in their retirement years.

For example, Era Living’s eight retirement living communities in the greater Seattle area offer beautiful senior housing options where residents can make new friends, take classes, pursue hobbies, and more. Research consistently points to the importance of social connections for health and happiness. Senior communities can offer this kind of engagement, with extra support available if people need it.

Built-in Services for Changing Needs — and Why Timing Matters

Within Era Living’s communities, our different care services include senior independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Having these options can help residents find meaningful connections and caring support throughout different stages of aging.

For those considering senior living, one of the biggest considerations can be deciding when to move. This can be a personal decision, and everyone’s priorities are different. One advantage to moving before a crisis is that people can move on their own terms and enjoy greater control over their choices.

Solo and Empowered

Solo aging promises to be a continuing trend as older adults embrace their retirement years. This can be a time to pursue new interests and enjoy the freedom of living independently. It can also be helpful to consider ways to find support along the way.

The good news is that planning and independence can coexist. Also, personal connections can play an important role, whether through senior living communities or other kinds of engagement.

If you or someone you love is exploring your options and considering a retirement community, we’d love to connect with you!

To learn more, please contact one of our retirement living experts today.