Lisa O
Imagine having complete control over your day, from what you eat in the morning to when you hit the hay without anyone bossing you around. That’s the life some older guys lead when they choose to live solo. Modern living has made it pretty comfortable for older men to stay single. Plus, men sometimes crave some alone time. Curious why older men prefer flying solo? Here are 17 reasons why they prefer living solo these days.
Older men prioritize financial security
Many older men fret about money and how a new relationship could shake things up. They choose to safeguard their finances rather than diving into new relationships because they fear losing it in things like divorce or supporting someone else financially. They’re wary of someone else potentially taking off with all their hard-earned cash.
Conserving energy becomes vital with age
As guys age, they find they have less energy. They’d rather save energy for things they already love—like hobbies or hanging out with friends- than fuss over dating and new romances. They prefer putting their oomph into pursuits they’ve always dreamed of, whether globetrotting or starting a business. Dating just doesn’t seem worth their time.
Solo living offers unmatched freedom
Living solo might seem lonely to some, but it actually brings a bunch of perks. One big benefit of living alone is having more independence and freedom. The Journal of Gerontology says being financially independent gives older guys the power to call the shots based on what they want and believe in. They can do whatever they want to without any interruption.
They find comfort in their own space
When they’re behind closed doors, people can kick back and do whatever they want, however they want. This brings a lot of comfort to a guy living solo, giving him the chance to relax without anyone else around. Once someone gets used to living alone, they usually don’t want to go back. Older men especially find solace in their homes when they’re free from any disruptions.
Drama-free living leads to peace
Living alone also means having less stress and fewer fights, or maybe no fights at all. According to the National Institute of Health, this peaceful atmosphere at home makes people happier. It also helps them avoid bad relationships and the stress that comes with that. Older men don’t want drama—they want peace and maybe a nice cold beer.
Solo pursuits keep their mind sharp
Living alone lets you do things your way and focus on what’s important to you. According to Scientific American, this helps keep your mind sharp and your brain working well. As we get older, our thinking skills can start to decrease. But keeping mentally and physically active and eating right can help slow down this decline in older folks.
They handle life’s challenges with resilience
Throughout life, men often form close connections with others. But older men living alone tend to be emotionally strong and tougher than those who live with a wife or girlfriend. Even if they’re in a place where not many people live alone, single folks can still feel happy, strong, and satisfied.
Solo living encourages new adventures
Another reason older men are opting to live solo is the freedom it brings. They don’t have to seek permission to do things or go places anymore—they just do it. This freedom has also sparked more solo travel among older folks. And who says you can’t travel when you’re older? Age doesn’t hold back adventurous souls like Diana Eden, who’s over 80 and embraces solo travel with enthusiasm.
They create their ideal living environment
For men living solo, their home is truly their kingdom. They’re in control, crafting their ideal environment, boosting their creativity, and cutting out any annoying distractions. They get to shape their home just the way they like it. Plus, they can pick exactly where they want to live without any disagreements from their partners.
Quality over quantity in socializing
Living with someone else can sometimes make you feel like you have to do things, even if you don’t want to. But when you’re living alone, as per the American Psychological Association, you feel less pressure from social expectations, which is very good for your mental health. You don’t have to follow anyone else’s lead. You do your own thing.
Setting boundaries creates healthier relationships
Living alone helps you appreciate both social time and alone time even more than before. It also lets you set healthier limits with the people around you, which Psychology Today says is important for a happy life. Creating boundaries can help you feel more in control and balanced in how you take care of yourself.
Self-sufficiency empowers them
Living alone means you’re in charge of everything at home, from indoors to outdoors. Older men who live solo feel good about being independent. But seniors who stay connected socially have lots of advantages—like better mental and emotional health, compared to those who don’t. Being self-reliant also means being able to connect with the people you care about.
They enjoy their own company
Research shows that older men who decide to live by themselves tend to like spending time with themselves more than those who live with others. By not following society’s expectations—they can be more true to who they are. Enjoying your own company can give you a boost of energy, and loving yourself is like having a special strength.
Solitude promotes self-discovery
According to Psychology Today, older folks who live alone have extra time to think about themselves, which helps them grow personally. This boosts their emotional health and makes them feel happier and more satisfied with life. Getting older means having lots of experiences—but it also gives you a chance to become wise and more self-aware.
Simple pleasures bring them joy
Living alone lets you find joy in the simple things and quiet moments of life. Without anyone else around, you can really appreciate the little things like having a nice cup of coffee in the morning or taking a peaceful walk in the park. For older men who live alone, these small moments become really important as they get older—bringing them happiness and fulfillment in their daily lives.
They navigate challenges with inner strength
Older men who live alone are usually good at dealing with life’s challenges in a healthy way because they’re used to taking care of themselves. This was clear during the COVID-19 pandemic when many older adults living alone managed to stay healthy despite the difficult situation. They showed they could adapt and stay safe, even when things got tough.
Meaningful connections enrich their lives
Living solo means being choosy about your social circle. Instead of hanging out with anyone, you opt for quality over quantity. You prioritize meaningful connections—ensuring that your time spent with others is enriching and fulfilling. It’s about surrounding yourself with people who genuinely add value to your life rather than simply filling up your calendar with social obligations.