Yes, adult adoption is indeed a "thing." While most adoptions traditionally involve children, there are cases where adults are adopted by other adults, typically for emotional or legal purposes.
Adult adoption can serve various purposes, such as formalizing a parent-child relationship that already exists, ensuring legal inheritance rights, providing emotional support, or strengthening bonds between individuals who consider themselves family in all but the legal sense.
The laws and requirements for adult adoption vary depending on the jurisdiction you're in, as well as the specific circumstances surrounding the adoption. Some places may have specific age requirements, residency conditions, or other legal prerequisites that need to be met.
If you're considering adult adoption to create a real family in your life, it's essential to research the laws in your country or state to understand the process and requirements. You may also want to consult with a family law attorney who can provide guidance and assistance throughout the adoption process.
Remember that creating a family is not solely reliant on legal adoption; there are many ways to form meaningful, supportive relationships with others, whether through close friends, chosen family, or support networks. Building connections and fostering meaningful relationships can be a fulfilling and essential part of creating a supportive family-like environment in your life.