What is an empty nester?

Empty nesters are parents whose children have grown up and moved out of the family home, often to attend college or start their own independent lives. This stage is typically experienced by middle-aged or older adults who find themselves with more free time and fewer daily parenting responsibilities. For many, becoming an empty nester can be both a time of adjustment and an opportunity for personal growth, travel, or pursuing new interests. Some may experience feelings of loneliness or loss, while others embrace the newfound freedom to focus on themselves and their partner.