Although commonly connected to middle aged people rather than the elderly, empty nest syndrome can persist or reoccur depending on a person’s individual feelings. Empty nest syndrome is associated with the loneliness and depression that parents sometimes experience after children have moved out of their home. These feelings can show up again if families move or friends see each other less often. In essence, the feelings represent a sense of loss of purpose, or the sense of being needed by loved ones.

Seniors can often overcome empty nest syndrome by establishing a new community and circle of friends. While many seniors can be intimidated by that prospect, moving into an assisted living facility can offer the lifestyle that they desire.

Empty nest syndrome does not have to remain a negative influence. The feelings of loneliness that can manifest when constant companionship is no longer available can be emotionally challenging. But by changing their perspective, seniors can look forward to a new and exciting chapter.

This new season of life may include:

  • The time and opportunity to learn new things
  • The chance to meet new people and friends
  • Overcoming bad habits once and for all
  • A time to pick up old hobbies and favorite pastimes

Embracing Your Stage in Life

Instead of dwelling on those things we miss, it is important to think about positive new ways we can fill our days – every day. Some ideas as to how to enjoy life and stay in the present are:

  • Stay active and engaged: Find people to share conversations with, to talk about what makes you both happy and sad. Share your life story, share your wisdom, and don’t forget to laugh about some of your funniest memories.
  • Be creative and ask others in: You don’t have to subject yourself to long, drawn out therapy sessions to defeat empty nest syndrome. You can choose to engage in social events, intellectual pursuits such as classes, join a church, learn more about spirituality, or take up a new exercise program. True wellness involves health in body, mind, and spirit – so choose one aspect of your life that you would like to explore, and then ask others to help you on your way. Vulnerability and asking for support go a long way to bringing what you need into your life.
  • Be honest and open: You aren’t twenty years old anymore, and you don’t need to spend years getting to know those you meet. Interact with others in an openly and honestly, talk about any issues that arise as they occur, and don’t bottle emotions or hold grudges. Strive for ways to keep the lines of communication open and the conversation real, and you’ll find yourself with new friends in no time.
  • Redefine yourself: A new phase of life allows you the opportunity to rediscover who you are – to leave behind things you don’t like, and to move towards a life that will bring you joy. Perhaps you never fancied yourself a dancer – so go out dancing! Maybe you never learned to speak another language – so take an online course and learn to do it now! You can choose to go on a date, take up a interesting hobby, or learn something new. You can abandon bad habits, create new relationships, and learn to love your new, post- empty nest syndrome life.

Empty nest syndrome can be painful and destructive, but it doesn’t have to be. If you are looking for ways to reconnect with the world, make new friends and get back into social life, consider assisted living! A community’s desire to provide an engaging lifestyle, while protecting your health and safety, is a great environment to embrace your new stage of life.

A Banyan Residence is an assisted living and memory care facility in Venice, Florida.