solitaryliving

Solitary living, sometimes written as solitaryliving, refers to the state of occupying a dwelling without other residents. It encompasses single-person households and may be voluntary or due to circumstances such as widowhood, separation, migration, or independence. It is distinct from isolation or confinement, which imply social deprivation or coercion.

Prevalence and motivations: In many high-income countries, one-person households are common, particularly among adults in their 20s to 40s and among the elderly. Motivations include autonomy, privacy, convenience, career or study commitments, and financial choices. Cultural norms and housing policy influence rates and acceptability of solitary living.

Benefits: Solitary living allows greater control over space, routines, and schedules, and can reduce household conflicts. It offers privacy and flexibility for personal interests, work, and rest. Social well-being in this context depends on maintaining active social networks and community ties; isolation is not an inherent consequence but a risk if connections are weak.

Challenges and risks: Potential downsides include social isolation or loneliness, safety and welfare concerns for aging or vulnerable individuals, and the ongoing management of chores, meals, finances, and health without assistance. Housing costs can be higher on a per-person basis in some markets, and there are practical considerations for security and emergency response. Technology and online communities can mitigate some challenges through communication, services, and monitoring.

Economic and housing context: Single-person households often require smaller housing units, which interacts with affordability, urban density, and neighborhood services. Housing policy, transport access, and social infrastructure influence the experience of solitary living and how readily individuals can sustain independence while maintaining social connectedness.