For many adults who are aging solo, the biggest concerns about the future often center on two things: losing independence and physical strength. According to a recent AARP study, nearly half of solo agers (those aging without a spouse, partner, or nearby children) say they worry most about what will happen if their health declines or if they can no longer live independently.
But seniors don’t have to navigate solo aging alone – research shows that choosing a senior living community, especially one that emphasizes wellness and connection, can help preserve independence longer.
What the Research Says About Solo Aging and Independence
In AARP’s survey on solo aging, respondents consistently ranked losing physical ability and social connection as top fears. Many also noted that living alone makes it harder to maintain healthy routines, access care, and stay engaged with others – all essential to aging well.
That’s where communities like Edgewood Summit come in. Life Plan Communities (also known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities or CCRCs) provide the infrastructure, wellness programs, and social environment that solo agers need to thrive while still enjoying a completely independent lifestyle.
These findings are echoed in The Age Well Study, conducted by Mather Institute and Northwestern University. According to the study, residents in Life Plan Communities report better physical health, greater emotional well-being, and higher satisfaction with life compared to older adults living alone. Simply put: the environment you live in directly affects how well you age.
Why Senior Living Helps You Maintain Independence as You Age
For solo agers, the concept of independent living in a retirement community can sound contradictory—but it’s actually the opposite. Life Plan Communities like Edgewood Summit help residents maintain autonomy longer through proactive health, fitness, and social engagement programs.
Here’s how they do it:
- Comprehensive Wellness Programs
Edgewood Summit’s holistic wellness offerings include fitness classes and personalized strength training – all proven to support balance, endurance, and mobility. These programs target the physical side of independence, ensuring residents stay strong and active.
- Social Connection and Purpose
Staying connected is vital for mental and emotional wellness. Group activities, volunteer opportunities, and community events create natural avenues for friendship and purpose.
- Continuum of Care for Peace of Mind
For solo agers, access to higher levels of care (if ever needed) provides reassurance and peace of mind. At a Life Plan Community like Edgewood Summit, support is available right on campus, ensuring your environment adapts as your needs evolve.
This structure helps residents not only maintain independence longer but also remove the burden of uncertainty that comes with aging solo.
The Edgewood Summit Difference
At Edgewood Summit, wellness isn’t a department, it’s a lifestyle. The community’s wellness programs integrate fitness, nutrition, spiritual health, and lifelong learning to help residents age well in every sense. From yoga classes and walking groups to art workshops and educational lectures, every program strengthens body, mind, and community.
And because Edgewood Summit offers independent living, you remain in control of your schedule and choices, while having access to the services and care that make maintaining independence as you age realistic and sustainable.
Aging solo and wondering if Edgewood Summit is right for you? Schedule a tour of our one-bedroom apartments and ask to stop by one of our wellness programs!