Women from Gen X and Boomer generations opting not to retire solo are embracing the ‘Golden Girls’ retirement strategy.

The Golden Girls was a popular NBC TV show from 1985 to 1992 that many people remember fondly. It introduced the idea that women might consider living together as they age instead of moving to senior living facilities. In New Mexico, a co-housing expert is exploring this concept further. Women between their 50s and early 70s have been gathering at a large ranch to discuss their thoughts and experiences related to shared living, including both practical and emotional aspects.

Christina Ianzito reported that Elizabeth White leads these retreats, where participants explore the possibility of living like The Golden Girls. The goal is to move from just thinking about shared living to actually deciding to pursue it. This involves answering several important questions, such as what happens if someone gets sick, how to handle chores, and what to do if a housemate is difficult to live with.

The retreat costs $1,500, and the women attending have diverse backgrounds. For instance, some participants include an education professor interested in creating a multigenerational household, a life coach from Arizona, and an artist who joined the retreat feeling she was at a significant point in her life.

The ranch is part of the Modern Elder Academy (MEA), a project founded by Chip Conley. Conley describes MEA as a “midlife wisdom school” that offers workshops on managing life changes and finding purpose. He believes that The Golden Girls showed the potential of living in community long before many people realized it. He started MEA after recognizing that while people are living longer, they often lack guidance on how to make those years meaningful.

Conley emphasizes the importance of independence in an aging community. He explains that the idea of living like The Golden Girls highlights the need to stay independent while avoiding isolation. Many women wish to keep their freedom while also enjoying companionship, laughter, and emotional support in their daily lives.

However, communal living can have challenges. Sharing a home requires effective communication, setting boundaries, and being open about finances. While friends may get along, they might not always be compatible as housemates.

More stories you may like

• Researchers discovered a subtle physical cue that indicates when someone is attracted to you.
• A century ago, a maverick geologist in Washington was mocked for his ‘disastrous’ theory. He turned out to be correct.
• A legal secretary took the subway to her job for 67 years. No one realized she had $9 million.