Have you ever wondered what life would look like if you didn’t have a spouse, partner, or children to lean on as you grow older? You’re not alone.
About 27% of seniors in the United States fall into this category, commonly known as “solo aging.”
If you find this topic hitting close to home—or if you’re supporting someone who may face these circumstances—it’s essential to understand the hurdles and opportunities that come with independently planning for the future.
That’s why Kensington Senior Living hosted a webinar on March 5th, “Caring for Solo Agers: Building Your Support System for Successful Aging,” featuring Steve Gurney from Positive Aging Community, to guide seniors through the steps of preparing for a safe, fulfilling later life.
By examining the practical aspects—like building a social network, researching long-term care, and accessing community resources—solo agers can maintain confidence and control, even without immediate family members nearby.
Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
What does aging solo mean?
Solo aging reflects a shift in how society is changing.
Higher divorce rates, the decision to remain child-free, and longer lifespans mean more older adults are living life without a built-in family support network.
But what does that look like on a day-to-day basis?
It can be both liberating and nerve-wracking.
- On one hand, you can live precisely as you wish, without worrying about how your choices might impact a partner or kids.
- On the other, you may wonder: Who will help me if I get sick, my mobility changes, or if I just need a ride to the grocery store?
These questions are valid—and they’re growing more common. The key is recognizing that “alone” doesn’t have to equal “unsupported.”
Plenty of resources exist, and even more are emerging, to help solo agers find companionship, expert advice, and reliable assistance.
The sooner you tap into them, the better prepared you’ll be to face any bumps in the road.
How to build a strong support network when aging alone
Maybe you’ve been independent your whole life, thinking: “I can handle this. I’ve always managed on my own.”
That might be true, but part of being proactive is acknowledging that certain aspects of aging—like health or mobility challenges—could pop up unexpectedly.
Ask yourself:
- Who would that be if I needed someone to advocate for me in a hospital?
- Do I have a power of attorney ready if my finances become challenging?
A solid support system isn’t about giving up your independence but preserving it for as long as possible.
Knowing that friends, professionals, or a trusted community are in your corner can:
- Prevent isolation: Regular interaction keeps your mind sharper, your mood brighter, and your body more active.
- Offer peace of mind: You’ll know you have someone to rely on for big transitions or crises.
- Enhance quality of life: Whether attending a yoga class or a cooking workshop, having people to share experiences with makes life richer and more enjoyable.
How to plan for long-term care as a solo ager
You might think, “Sure, a community sounds nice, but where do I find it?” Start small. Look at the people and places you already interact with, and then expand:
- Reconnect with Old Friends: Sometimes, a simple phone call or social media message can rekindle a friendship. You never know who else feels isolated or is eager to rebuild connections.
- Join Clubs, Groups, or Classes: Have you always loved painting, hiking, or volunteering? Community centers, local gyms, libraries, or faith-based organizations often host classes or meetups. Attending regularly can lead to genuine friendships.
- Seek Out Volunteer Opportunities: Engaging in community service provides meaningful activity and introduces you to others who share your passion for helping.
- Consider Virtual Communities: Technology is a robust connector, especially if you have mobility challenges or live in a rural area. From Facebook Groups dedicated to seniors’ interests to online book clubs, there’s much to explore.
Mapping Out Your Long-Term Care: No Surprises Allowed
Another pressing question for solo agers: What happens if I need help with daily tasks or medical care down the road?
This is where long-term care planning comes in. Being caught off guard is never fun, especially regarding health and finances. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Establish Legal Documents Early
- Advance Directive: Spell out your healthcare preferences if you can’t speak for yourself.
- Healthcare Proxy: Names a trusted person who makes medical decisions on your behalf.
- Power of Attorney (POA): Assign someone to manage your financial or legal affairs if you cannot.
Even if you trust a close friend, having everything in writing ensures your wishes are crystal clear.
2. Research Care Options
- In-Home Care: Perfect if you value your independence but need help with cooking, cleaning, or personal care.
- Assisted Living Communities: Assisted living provides a blend of housing, meals, social activities, and healthcare support.
- Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs): Offer multiple levels of care on one campus, letting you “age in place.
Do you prefer staying in your current home, or does the idea of a supportive community with organized social activities excite you?
There’s no wrong answer—it’s about finding a fit for your personality and comfort level.
3. Plan Financially
- Long-Term Care Insurance: If you purchase it early enough, it can help cover in-home services or assisted living costs in the future.
- Budgeting and Savings: Consider your current assets, ongoing expenses, and how long your money might last if your care needs increase.
Resources available for solo agers to thrive independently
Ever heard the phrase, “It takes a village”? That absolutely applies to aging—solo or not.
Here are some specific resources that can reduce stress and help you feel less alone:
- Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): Your local AAA can offer everything from meal delivery referrals to caregiver support and transportation services.
- Meals on Wheels: Perfect if grocery shopping or cooking is a challenge. This program brings nutritious meals right to your doorstep.
- Kensington Senior Living Communities: Our ever-changing calendar of events and social gatherings is perfectly designed to keep members of our community active, connected, and engaged. Our team is also here to support you and your families in navigating the care journey.
- AARP Community Programs: Whether you need help navigating Medicare or just want to find discount opportunities, AARP has many tools.
- Faith-Based Organizations: Churches, synagogues, or other religious communities often have volunteer groups dedicated to helping seniors.
Kensington Senior Living — giving confidence to solo seniors
Kensington Senior Living is a family of assisted living and memory care communities across eight locations dedicated to easing the path of solo aging.
We provide comprehensive healthcare services, empowering residents to age in place across all our locations.
Whether you need mild assistance or specialized dementia care, Our Promise remains the same—to love and care for you as we would our own family.
Start planning with Kensington Senior Living early to ensure you’re prepared before unexpected challenges arise.
Contact Kensington Senior Living today and experience how our compassionate expertise and purposeful amenities make solo aging a secure and fulfilling choice.