Demographics of Single Seniors
While societal norms often portray retirement-age individuals as being married, the reality is far more complex and diverse. For many, becoming single in their later years is a natural result of life's trajectory, whether through the loss of a spouse, divorce, or a conscious decision to remain unmarried. Analyzing recent data helps paint a clearer picture of the marital status of those aged 65 and over.
The Stark Gender Divide
One of the most revealing aspects of senior singleness is the significant difference between men and women. In 2019, approximately 49% of women aged 65 and older were single, compared to just 21% of men in the same age group. This large discrepancy is primarily attributed to two factors: women's longer life expectancy and men's tendency to remarry more frequently and later in life.
Breaking Down the "Single" Category
The term "single" for an older adult covers several distinct circumstances. Data from the National Center for Family & Marriage Research (NCFMR) highlights the changes in marital status distribution for U.S. adults aged 65 and older between 1990 and 2022.
- Widowed: The share of older adults who are widowed has dropped over time, but significant gender differences remain. In 2023, there were more than three times as many widows (9 million) as widowers (2.9 million) among those 65+.
- Divorced: Divorce among older adults has seen a dramatic increase, nearly tripling from 5.2% in 1990 to 15.2% in 2022. This trend, often referred to as "gray divorce," adds another significant portion to the single senior population.
- Never Married: The number of older adults who have never been married has also risen slightly, increasing from 5.2% in 1990 to 6.6% in 2022.
The Difference Between Living Alone and Being Single
It is important to differentiate between being single and living alone. Approximately 28% of people 65 and older lived by themselves in 2023. While there is overlap, some single individuals live with family or roommates, and some married individuals might live separately.
The Health and Social Implications of Senior Singleness
Being single in older age brings with it unique considerations for health and well-being. Researchers have linked loneliness and social isolation to a variety of negative health outcomes.
The Impact of Loneliness and Social Isolation
Loneliness and social isolation among older adults are associated with an increased risk of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, depression, and cognitive decline. The health risks can even be equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. However, not all single seniors are lonely; many lead fulfilling and socially active lives.
Resources for Social Connection
Older adults who are single can combat loneliness and build strong social networks:
- Community Centers: Offer activities, classes, and social events.
- Volunteering: Provides purpose and a chance to meet others.
- Online Platforms: Senior-specific dating and social sites exist.
- Hobbies: Joining clubs based on shared interests is a great way to find new connections.
The Financial Aspect
Economically, single seniors face different challenges. Lifelong single individuals may experience greater financial insecurity in later life compared to married peers. Single seniors need to be especially mindful of financial planning. For more insights into planning for single retirement, visit the myLifeSite blog.
Comparison of Marital Status Among Older Adults
| Marital Status (2022) | All Adults 65+ | Men 65+ | Women 65+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Currently Married | 57.4% | 69.8% | 47.3% |
| Widowed | 20.9% | 10.3% | 29.5% |
| Divorced | 15.2% | 13.1% | 16.8% |
| Never Married | 6.6% | 6.9% | 6.4% |
Note: Based on NCFMR analysis of American Community Survey Data.
Conclusion: A Diverse and Evolving Landscape
The picture of how many 65 year olds are single is diverse and evolving. It reflects changing demographics, differing life expectancies, and evolving societal norms. While women are more likely to be single due to widowhood, the rise of "gray divorce" has increased singleness for both genders. Challenges like loneliness and financial planning exist, but opportunities abound for older adults to build fulfilling lives and vibrant social connections, whether single by choice or circumstance.
