Interactive discussion with a live audience, featuring thought leader Wendl Kornfeld, provided an insightful and inspiring look into the challenges and solutions of “solo aging”—growing older without immediate family nearby. Hosted by the Positive Aging Community, the session brought together older adults from across the United States for a candid conversation on building support networks, fostering resilience, and finding belonging as we age.

Wendl Kornfeld’s personal story underscores the reality of solo aging. Married for over 40 years but without adult children and with a spouse in declining health, Kornfeld realized over a decade ago the importance of constructing a robust support team. She described how, in 2013, she began organizing small focus groups for older adults in similar circumstances. These meetings, initially held in private homes, evolved into a larger movement now known as "Community as Family." The group started with six attendees at New York’s Temple Emanu-El and now boasts a mailing list of more than 80, providing both practical resources and genuine friendships.

Kornfeld emphasized that community is as vital as resilience in navigating the later stages of life. Drawing from her experience and academic studies in the psychology of aging, she highlighted:

• Mutual Aid Philosophy: Support networks aren’t one-way streets—members both give and receive help. This mutuality is central to lasting, meaningful engagement.

• Practical Steps: Attendees were advised to widen their social circles by forming bonds with neighbors, colleagues, and through local organizations. Volunteering, joining “third places” like libraries and community centers, and taking the initiative to organize meetups are effective ways to foster connection.

• Professional and Legal Preparation: Kornfeld stressed the need for all older adults to have key documents—such as health care proxies and financial power of attorney—prepared. She noted that many of these forms are available for free from local Departments of Health and don’t always require legal assistance.

Participants openly discussed emotional hurdles, financial constraints, physical limitations, and isolation—especially for introverts and those with disabilities. Kornfeld explained that urban, suburban, and rural environments present different opportunities and challenges but encouraged everyone to seek out what’s available in their community, especially through county Departments of Aging.

The discussion was rich with personal stories—of pet owners bonding over dog walks, support groups forming around shared diagnoses, and strangers becoming trusted friends and even health care proxies. Kornfeld championed the idea that if you build it, they will come, encouraging attendees to start small support groups, develop mission statements, and be proactive about community-building.Full recording and more details here