There exists an unfair negative stigma around the idea of living alone. Those who aren't married by a certain age, are often on the receiving end of questions and assumptions as to why they haven't found someone yet. The same is true of aging seniors. Looks and words of pity have become the norm for aging seniors who are living the single life. It's time to bust this myth wide open! Guess what? Living alone does not equate to loneliness.
Related Blog: Living At Home vs. Moving Into a Full-Service Retirement Community
Reasons Aging Seniors Live Alone
Never judge a book by its cover. This statement is so important when it comes to assuming what you think is true about someone's life. There are different reasons seniors might live alone.
Whether or not you live with someone or by yourself does not determine loneliness. There are plenty of aging seniors who live alone and do not experience a moment of loneliness. On the other hand, there are plenty who do live with a spouse or family members experience at least some degree of loneliness. The key to keeping loneliness at bay is to do what you love and surround yourself with people you can connect with.
How To Combat Loneliness
It is in peoples' nature to feel needed and have a purpose. Although abilities might change with age, this need does not. There are two main components to combatting loneliness as you age. The first is to do what you love. Find what inspires you. Is it painting? Do you enjoy taking classes at the gym? Get involved in your community doing things you enjoy and that gives you a sense of purpose.
The second component is connecting with like-minded people. Chances are good that if you master the first component, the second will follow. By engaging in activities that you enjoy within your community, you will meet people who enjoy the same things you do. Over time connections and friendships will build. Loneliness is a state of mind, not a state of being.
Embrace Change
Often times, aging brings about changes in life. At first, the idea of change sounds scary. In reality, change is just another word for growth. Growth in aging individuals is a good thing. You don't enjoy the same things at 30 years old that you did when you were 16 years old, and that's a good thing! It means you have matured and wisened up over the years. The same is true for aging seniors. Embrace this new stage of your life and enjoy things you weren't able to do when you were raising a family or working a demanding full-time job.
Live It Up During Retirement
Retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy everything you've worked so hard for. Luxury living at Sarasota Bay Club offers just that! As a full-service retirement community, enjoy state-of-the-art amenities including a pool, spa, salon, massage studio, billiards room, art studio, woodworking shop, fitness center, private dining, and so much more. While you may choose a spacious one-bedroom residence, you certainly do not have to live alone. The cozy, tight-knit community is perfect for catching up with old friends and making new ones! Contact us today for your private showing.
