American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) Practice Test

What is distinctive about the retired solitary survivor stage?

1. One partner is still working

2. Both partners are still working

3. Only one member of the couple remains alive

4. No one in the household is currently working

The correct answer is: No one in the household is currently working

The retired solitary survivor stage is characterized by the situation where an individual has outlived their spouse or partner and is now living alone. In this stage, the focus shifts to the life of the surviving partner, who is often retired and no longer engaged in paid employment. Choosing "no one in the household is currently working" accurately reflects this stage, as the survivor is typically not only retired but is also managing the household without the deceased partner, emphasizing a solitary existence. This phase often includes adjustments to social roles, activities, and financial planning, all under the context of being the sole occupant of the household. In contrast, the other options imply the presence of active employment, either by one or both partners. However, in the context of the retired solitary survivor stage, the essence lies in the absence of the partner and subsequent changes in lifestyle, which leads to a situation where the surviving individual is not engaged in any work-related activities.