Nearly half of single female Boomers (45%) aren’t interested in dating, but an active social life is a priority.
That’s a key conclusion of a new study conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of Del Webb, a national brand of PulteGroup, Inc., one of the nation’s largest homebuilders and the leading builder of communities for active adults.
Just 38% are looking for companionship or marriage, the study found.
The third in a series of newly released data from the 2015 Del Webb Baby Boomer Survey finds that 42% of respondents are just as socially active today (if not more) than they were at 35 years old. Two-thirds (67%) say they engage in social activities outside the home at least once a month, and nearly one-in-five (17%) are socially active outside the home a few times a week. The survey was conducted online among 1,020 single female U.S. adults ages 50-68.
They’re Catching the Latest Movies, Traveling Abroad and Volunteering:
As dating takes a back seat, the calendars of single female boomers are instead filled with social, physical and mental activities, and include a wide range of hobbies and interests. In fact, just five% prioritize pursuing a romantic relationship. Aside from spending time with family and friends, the survey found they rank a healthy lifestyle as their top priority (68%).
“Since we built the first Del Webb community in 1960, we’ve seen firsthand how staying active can keep you mentally and physically young,” said Deborah Demos, Lifestyle Director at Sun City Mesquite about 90 miles north of Las Vegas. “Single Boomer women aren’t slowing down as they are out with friends, hitting the gym, volunteering, furthering their education, and more. It comes as no surprise that our survey data also shows three quarters (76%) of single female Boomers feel younger than their age. The fact is, the women in this demographic are thriving.”
Among those who engage in social activities, the most popular pastimes include dinners with friends (66%), trips to the movies (51%) and attending concerts (31%), according to the study.
Other top social activities include:
- Seeing plays and musicals (30%);
- Seeking formal and informal education (28%);
- Outdoor activities (e.g., hiking, canoeing, kayaking, etc.) (24%);
- Attending sporting events (22%);
- Happy hours (15%); and
- Dancing (14%)
The study also revealed that volunteer work is a top activity among single female Boomers, with nearly one-third (30%) citing this as a way they spend their time. Del Webb estimates that its 300,000 residents across the country contribute more than three million hours of time each year to work for nonprofit organizations, from mentoring and tutoring to fundraising and board membership.
“It is incredible to witness the willingness and enthusiasm of this generation to share their time and talents,” added Demos. “Promoting a culture of volunteerism at Del Webb has long been a priority for us, and we are proud to see our single female Boomer residents spend thousands of hours each year doing work beyond our community walls.”
Looking for Love?
For the single female Boomers who are interested in dating, many are ready to mingle – not marry. The survey found that 25% of respondents are seeking companionship, while others are just looking to meet people and socialize (3%). Just 13% want to find love and get married.
“This is a dynamic, powerful group of women with incredibly diverse interests,” said Demos. “Whether furthering their education, making the world a better place, or just wanting to have fun, these women can – and do – have it all. By understanding this unique demographic we can make sure our Del Webb communities offer activities, clubs and amenities that meet the needs of the single female Boomer.”