Facing Retirement Without Family: How to Build Your Circle of Support
on Jul 17, 2025
We often work with childfree clients (also known as “solo agers”) who are evaluating the financial viability of retiring where they currently live—or considering relocating to a more affordable area. For some, that may mean moving to a place where they have no family, no close friends, and no existing community. It can be an exciting fresh start, but it also brings up an important question: Who will be there to support me in retirement?
For these clients, it’s not just the delivery of a solid, financial plan. We also have a conversation around who is going to be in “Circle of Support”—a mix of people who could offer emotional, practical, and professional support during this next chapter of life.
If you’re facing retirement without family, considering a similar move—or just wondering how to strengthen your connections in retirement—here are five steps to help you build a support network without relying on family.
- Reflect on Your Needs and Strengths
Begin by thinking about the kind of support you want or need in this next stage of life:
- Emotional: Companionship, encouragement, or a trusted friend to talk to.
- Practical: Help with errands, home maintenance, or rides to appointments.
- Professional: Advisors who can support your financial, health, or legal decisions.
Also, consider what you bring to the table. Do you have time to help others? A skill to share? Support networks are most rewarding when they’re mutual.
- Reconnect and Strengthen Relationships
You may already have people in your life who could be part of your circle—you just need to nurture the connection.
- Reconnect with old co-workers, friends, neighbors you’ve lost touch with.
- Strengthen your current friendships by scheduling regular calls, planning outings, or sharing experiences together.
Even small steps—like inviting someone for coffee—can lead to meaningful connections over time.
- Expand Your Network with Intention
When you’re ready to meet new people, seek out opportunities based on shared interests:
- Hobbies: Join local clubs or online groups focused on something you enjoy. If you love hiking, join a local hiking group. If you love theater, volunteer to paint scenes at the local theater. Join a book club, craft or gardening club to meet your kind of people.
- Community resources: Check out offerings at your local senior center or community center. Many offer fitness classes, art workshops, or lifelong learning courses.
- Support groups: If you’re facing a specific challenge—like caregiving, chronic illness, or grief—there are groups filled with people who understand.
- Online tools: Sites like Meetup.com, NextDoor or Facebook Groups can help you connect with like-minded people in your area.
And remember—if you don’t find something that fits, create your own.
- Communicate Clearly and Set Boundaries
Building a support system means inviting people into your life—but also setting healthy expectations.
- Be honest about what kind of help you’re seeking.
- Understand that not everyone will have the capacity to meet those needs—and that’s okay.
- Clarify your own limits, too, so you don’t become overwhelmed by trying to be everything to everyone.
Healthy boundaries make relationships stronger and more sustainable.
- Make It Mutual
Support isn’t just about what you receive—offering your time, presence, or skills helps relationships flourish. Whether it’s helping a friend with tech, offering to walk a neighbor’s dog, or simply listening when someone’s had a hard day, reciprocity creates a sense of community and purpose.
You’re Not Alone
Retirement without family can feel uncertain—but it doesn’t have to be lonely. By reflecting on your needs, reaching out to others, and being open to new experiences, you can build your own Circle of Support.
Start by reaching out to one person today. You may be surprised by how ready others are to connect—and how fulfilling this next chapter can truly be.
Other Helpful Resources:
Navigating Solo Network and Resources Library
Solo Aging and the Importance of Building a Local Support Network
How to Build Your MicroBoard (And Be the Chair of Your Board!)
13 Ways to Live a Dynamic Life
With the increasing awareness of Solo Aging, help with planning can also be found through many organizations around the country, including senior centers, area agencies on aging, and county offices of aging.
Online search suggestions: Search “solo aging”, “childfree”