Text size:

Older singles need to network

By Paula Licata Ganzi | Special to Newsday

Those who are single and not part of a couple should take notice of their social networks as they segue from career to retirement, experts say.

The following recommendations were made by psychologists who specialize in working with older adults, specifically with singles in mind -- whether widows or widowers, divorced or never married. In general, singles should strengthen connections and be aware of opportunities outside the workplace to balance alone time.

If work has played a major role in providing social opportunities and you feel these friendships may not last after retirement, start building other relationships to replace the office network.

Be mindful of your existing friends and family and continue investing in those relationships so that you are socially and emotionally involved, receiving the necessary interpersonal nourishment.

Pursuing interests and activities that you genuinely enjoy offers the added bonus of meeting like-minded people.

Try as many clubs and activities as possible to find the right fit. Over time you may develop rewarding relationships, as well as learn new skills or discover a newfound favorite pastime.

For those who found their identity mostly in their careers, or have led solitary lives outside the office, relinquishing your "career self" and becoming a retiree may pose a difficult transition. Unplugging yourself from the workaday world leaves a sizable chunk of time. Helping others and volunteering can provide a sense of worth and boost self esteem. Ideally, friendships can develop.

Though there's no need to compromise with a partner about where you'll live once retired, you may want to live near family and friends.

Many programs such as Elderhostel provide educational, learning and travel opportunities, often pairing single people for room accommodations for travel.