Loneliness in older adults: how to cope with empty nest syndrome

Senior In-Home Care  |  December 1, 2025

Empty nest syndrome is a phenomenon that is increasingly being studied, but in short, we can define it as the sadness parents feel when their children leave home. This change in family dynamics can affect anyone, but when it comes to older adults who are already retired, the feeling of an empty nest is likely to grow. 

For many, it is not just a superficial feeling of sadness, but a profound loss that can trigger depression and an identity crisis. However, this phase also presents an opportunity for reinvention and a new approach to life that is more focused on personal development. At Comfort Keepers Ottawa & Kanata, we have encountered this situation many times, which is why we want to shed light on this issue by analyzing where this feeling may originate, why older adults may be particularly vulnerable, and what strategies are effective in coping with it and thriving.

What is empty nest syndrome and why does it lead to loneliness?

It should be noted that empty nest syndrome is not a clinical diagnosis, but rather a popular term that encompasses the emotional challenges parents face when their children leave home. According to research, this period is often accompanied by a loss of role, routine, and daily purpose, which can be deeply destabilizing.

For older adults, the stakes may seem even higher:

Loss of role and change of identity

It is common for adults to devote themselves 100% to their parenting roles when their children arrive. Parenting may have been their central role for decades. When children leave, parents tend to feel adrift, unable to remember who they were and what their passions were before becoming parents.

Reduced social interaction

For many older adults, their children were their main source of daily social contact. So when the dynamic changes, the absence of children can drastically reduce meaningful social engagement. 

Cultural Factors

The impact of this change can be influenced by cultural context. In some societies, it is common for children to leave home early to attend university, while in others, they remain in the family home until they start their own families.

How does loneliness affect old age?

Loneliness in old age is a more complex issue than is commonly believed, as it can be accompanied by a series of physical and psychological illnesses, which, although their origin may be multifactorial, your mood or that of your loved one plays a fundamental role.

It is linked to chronic illnesses, sleep problems, depression, a weakened immune system, and even higher premature mortality.

However, the positive side is that there are always things we can do to improve this situation.

1. Recognize and Validate Your Feelings

You are likely to experience a roller coaster of emotions, and the best thing you can do is not to repress what you are feeling. Writing in a journal is a good technique for processing emotions.

If you feel it is necessary, seeking guidance from a mental health professional can be very liberating.

2. Rebuild your routine and create new habits

Remember what hobbies you enjoyed before becoming a parent. You can also take advantage of this time to discover new interests.

3. Strengthen and create new social connections

This is the perfect time to join new social circles, start playing a team sport, take classes to learn a musical instrument, or volunteer. These are all great ways to give your life new meaning and make friends.

Try to maintain contact between parents and children. Although the pace of adult life can sometimes make this difficult, today, thanks to technology, it is much easier. Text messages, calls, and video calls help maintain a close relationship even when distance separates you.

4. Set new goals

Whether they are related to your professional career, personal growth, or volunteering, setting goals helps you regain motivation and direction.

Use the “vision board” method: Design a visual roadmap of what this new stage could look like: dreams, activities, values.

5. Your relationship can move up the priority list

If you have a partner and your children have moved out, this is an opportunity to reconnect. Reinvest your newfound free time in your relationship by sharing hobbies, dates, or trips.

6. Accept professional help and support

Every experience is different depending on the person. If you encounter any kind of physical limitation, you may need extra professional help. At Comfort Keepers Ottawa, we are professionals in home care services. Our professionals are fully trained to provide physical and emotional support and ensure dignified treatment.

Another possibility is to participate in group therapy or support groups: connecting with others who are in the same phase can be comforting and reduce loneliness.

Turning the empty nest into a new beginning

While empty nest syndrome can feel like a void, many older adults find that it is the gateway to a new and enriching chapter in life. Here are some ways to reframe the change as an opportunity:

Celebrate your child’s independence

Recognize how your guidance helped them grow. Their success can be a source of pride, not just loss.

Embrace freedom

Whether it’s traveling, learning something new, or reevaluating your life goals, your schedule is yours again.

Build a legacy

Think of ways to contribute to society: mentor others in your area of expertise, touch people’s hearts by volunteering, tap into your creativity. Many older adults at this stage set ambitious athletic goals, such as running a marathon, and channel their experiences to make a meaningful impact.

Loneliness in older adults during the empty nest stage is common, but it doesn’t have to define this stage of life. While your children’s independence may feel like letting go of a role that has been with you for years, it also offers a powerful opportunity to rediscover who you are, reconnect with others, and build a meaningful future on your own terms.

By acknowledging your feelings, restructuring your routines, strengthening social ties, and pursuing new goals, you can transform the empty nest into a space full of possibilities. And if loneliness feels overwhelming, seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Contact Comfort Keepers® Home Care in Ottawa or Kanata today to learn how our personalized care plans can bring peace of mind to your family

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