Feeling 'Unseen' in Retirement? Try Seeing Others

Columnist Froma Harrop shares insights on combating loneliness and lack of purpose in retirement by recognizing the humanity in everyday interactions.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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In a recent column, Froma Harrop discusses the 'retirement crisis' of feeling 'less valued, needed or connected' that many retirees face. She suggests that the remedy is to actively see and engage with the people around you, from service workers to new neighbors, rather than treating them as invisible. Harrop shares personal anecdotes about the warmth that can come from simple gestures of respect and recognition, even with strangers.

Why it matters

As more Americans reach retirement age, the issue of maintaining a sense of purpose and community after leaving the workforce is becoming increasingly important. Harrop's insights highlight how small acts of mindfulness and empathy can help retirees feel 'seen' and combat the isolation that often accompanies major life transitions.

The details

Harrop cites a Wall Street Journal article about the 'retirement crisis' of losing one's identity and sense of mattering. She notes that nearly a third of retirees report depressive symptoms, often driven by feeling 'less valued, needed or connected.' Harrop suggests that one remedy is to actively see and engage with the people around you, from service workers to new neighbors, rather than treating them as invisible. She shares a personal anecdote about warming up a relationship with a hospital dietitian by simply asking where she was from and having a genuine conversation.

  • Harrop's column was published on March 4, 2026.

The players

Froma Harrop

A columnist who writes about lifestyle and social issues.

Wall Street Journal

The publication that Harrop cited for an article about the 'retirement crisis' of feeling unneeded and disconnected.

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What they’re saying

“Nearly a third of retirees report depressive symptoms, one study found. Another points to a likely driver: Many retirees feel 'less valued, needed or connected.'”

— Froma Harrop, Columnist (thealpenanews.com)

“If you want to be 'seen,' try seeing others.”

— Froma Harrop, Columnist (thealpenanews.com)

What’s next

Harrop does not mention any specific next steps or future newsworthy events related to this story.

The takeaway

Harrop's column emphasizes that the key to feeling 'seen' and combating loneliness in retirement is to actively engage with and recognize the humanity in the people around you, from service workers to new neighbors. Small acts of respect and empathy can go a long way in helping retirees maintain a sense of purpose and connection.