Solo Agers Can Be Alone but Not Lonely

The best thing about living alone is the freedom to do whatever you please, whenever you want to do it. —82-year-old female solo ager

AARP is taking a close look at solo aging—a growing trend that includes more than 24 million older Americans. Our research findings are encouraging: Many solo agers are living life on their own terms, enjoying independence and finding fulfillment.

Still, the picture is nuanced. While many embrace the freedom living alone brings, others say the hardest part is missing connection. One 57-year-old solo ager told us, “The worst thing about living alone is being lonely when there is nothing to do and not going out with friends or family.”

Loneliness is not just an unpleasant feeling; it is linked to many negative health consequences, including a higher risk of developing dementia, depression, even heart disease. It’s also costly for taxpayers. An AARP study from 2017 found a lack of social contact among older adults is associated with an additional $6.7 billion in Medicare spending annually.

AARP has an extensive array of programs that solo agers may find helpful in combating loneliness. As part of our core mission to promote lifelong fulfillment, we have always recognized that staying engaged and connected is good medicine for healthy aging. That is why we’ve built a growing network of partners, volunteers and community programs to help Americans—solo agers included—pursue passions and meet like-minded people. These programs create a pathway to connection.

A great place to start is with AARP's Community Groups. Here you’ll find ways to join with like-minded people over 50, including groups for foodies, techies and beyond. These options are designed for flexibility, ensuring that every solo ager can find the level of connection that feels both comfortable and meaningful.