Empty nest syndrome is not a vague, theoretical issue—it’s a real problem impacting millions. According to the Mayo Clinic, grown-up kids’ transition out of the home can lead to their parents feeling sadness, loss and disconnection.

On the other hand, this major life transition also represents opportunity to rediscover old hobbies, find new interests and make new connections. An active lifestyle is important at all stages of life, but even more critical if you’re an empty nester. It creates a foundation of mental and physical health that allows you to stay independent and in your home for years to come.

For a multitude of reasons, our friend circles tend to shrink throughout our adult lives, particularly in the later years. At the same time, we know social and community connections are critical contributors to our health and happiness. Senior industry expert and author Joy Loverde joins us for a conversation about why—and how—to make and keep new friends as we age.

COVID-19 has given new meaning to the idea of empty nest syndrome. Millions of families have been in isolation together, and while proximity can cause us to drive each other crazy, the pit that opens up when it ends can be even more painful.

For the parents and grandparents who have relished having kids and grandkids at home again during the isolation period, going back to "normal" may come with feelings of loneliness or sadness. If you are struggling with empty nest feelings as a result of your quarantine household disbanding, know you are not alone.

We hear in the news and during conversations with friends about companionship and how important it is in our older years. Sure, it's great to have conversations with your new housemate or friend over morning breakfast, but what else does companionship do?    

A few years ago, I went cellphone shopping with my seventy-year-old mom. Much to my surprise, she wasn’t shopping for a basic phone. No, she wanted an iPhone. I was shocked. I knew she could handle the upgraded technology, but I just assumed she wanted the path of least resistance and stay with what she knew. Leave it to my mom, once again, to prove that I don’t know it all.  

With all the stressors life has to offer, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and anxious. Unfortunately, it’s a more common problem than not.  However, with a little focus and patience, lasting change is achievable. How? By learning a few practical skills, you can manage your emotions and ease your thoughts.  Recognizing the present and seizing the moment, is just one of the many tools that help you find inner peace.    

Sometimes when I read science news, it seems as though the world is moving incredibly quickly. I see stories about gene editing, stem cells and cloning…and I think, “What a time to be alive!” But usually just a bit later, I read more science news, and it seems like the world is moving incredibly slowly. We still suffer from genetic diseases, like cystic fibrosis; stem cells haven’t cured Parkinson’s yet; and nobody has cloned me yet to enable me to keep up with all my email.

Cookie Johnson's stormy courtship with Earvin "Magic" Johnson was a prelude for the very public life they have led since his announcement, two months after their wedding, that he is HIV positive. Cookie Johnson is a woman of substance. And she’s finally telling her story of their 14-year courtship and 25 years of married life in her new book, Believing in Magic.

Cathy Lawdanski is a 50-something wife, mother and grandmother, embracing the challenges and adventures of being on “this side” of 50. Her blog is My Side of 50-Embracing the Midlife Adventure. Cathy shares her life with us, along with inspiration and great tips, from great summer reads to wardrobe to food and drink. We especially love her perspective on girlfriends at midlife, so we’re sharing it with you!