Aging Has Completely Changed Martha Stewart's Opinion About Being Single

Martha Stewart has built a legacy that will outlast her, the founder of a massive media company and a well-loved figure at that. Aside from her heartwarming recipes, the cooking host doesn't hold back when it comes to talking about how aging affected her view on relationships. Stewart was previously married to Andrew Stewart for 26 years, though the couple called it quits in 1987. Nearly 40 years and several high-profile romances later, Stewart has admitted she now finds it preferable to stay single.

In an exclusive sit-down with People, the host of "The Martha Stewart Cooking Show" revealed that she no longer wanted the "lovely married life" some of her friends had. "The older you get, the less you really need a mate, I think," she shared with the publication. She also pointed out how the idealized notion of 'growing old together' clashed with her reality. "I wouldn't want to be beleaguered with an older, ill person," she said. As such, the media personality has largely written off ideas of romance and regards it as an aspect of her life she no longer prioritizes. Although others might not share her views, it's hard not to appreciate Stewart's total honesty and admire her confidence. 

It's an understatement to say that Martha Stewart is fearless in the face of aging. In her 80s, she's still making public appearances, traveling well, and serving some seriously iconic fashion looks. And aside from being at peace with staying single, the seasoned businesswoman has developed an optimistic view of getting older. In an interview with for AARP, the she revealed how she views aging as a privilege.

"People talk about aging successfully, but I think of it as living gracefully and living to the absolute fullest," Stewart told the publication, cementing her place as one of the celebs who are confronting aging with confidence. It's clear that this mindset has allowed the media mogul to find that contentment can be experienced alone rather than in a romantic connection. She isn't alone in this thinking. Per AARP, many aging women who are single-by-choice report finding fulfillment through friendship and other social groups. This may explain why some studies show increasing numbers of divorced and widowed women choosing not to remarry. In any case, for Stewart, it's clear that choosing to stay alone doesn't translate to closed doors; it's simply a time to experience and explore what else life has to offer.