My youngest was 18 when I seriously considered dating again. It would not have been possible for me to date six years earlier when we lost her mom. I have respect for those who have the time and energy for multi-tasking. All kids a different but 18 and 20 seem old enough to not need constant attention.
Many idolize their past marriage. I loved Laurie - still do - and would gladly trade places with her, however, our marriage could have been much better. This is mostly because of me. I'm an asshole, more so before I was medicated. Just being truthful.
My older sister lives mostly by herself for now. They sold their house and bought another in a 55 plus community about a two hour drive from his job, after her retirement a couple of years ago. He retires from teaching in June and will join her full time. He rents a small apartment close to his work. They've been married since 1978.