I personally think retirement villages can be fantastic for single people as it can give you a sense of community. Particularly ones marketed just at over 55s.
Other ideas are getting involved in community groups or dare I say it...looking for a house buddy. There might just be another lady (or man) like yourself who'd love a share situation. It would take some screening and trial for the right person but certainly might be an option. And it can solve issues if wanting to go away as you have a live in house sitter. Just an idea. I watched a program recently about aging singles and those were great solutions.