Please read this post on Solo Agers from our own Helen Trowsdale, RN, BSN and Aging Life Care Professional. Helen is Avenues Home Care’s Quality Improvement Officer.
Let’s take a look at the Solo Agers growing demographic, and the steps to take to age how, when and where we desire.
The quest to age with dignity and autonomy applies to a growing percentage of the population.
We often hear the advice to “always be prepared!” This is especially true for those of us joining an emerging demographic category – Solo Agers. Preparing for our later years isn’t an easy process for a lot of us. It requires preparation, planning, and commitment to a well-thought-out aging plan. However, if we take the time to do it right, we can remain in control and ensure our goals are met.
“27% of American adults aged 60 and older are Solo Agers…
Pew Research Center
older adults in the U.S. are more likely to live alone than anywhere else.”
In 2023, about 28% (16.2 million) of all older U.S. adults lived alone (5.7 million men, 10.5 million women). They represented 22% of older men and 33% of older women. The proportion of people living alone increases with advanced age for both men and women. Among women 75 and older, for example, 42% lived alone. The financial impact of solo aging on women as they grow older is also an emerging concern. A 2021 study from The Journals of Gerontology finds that women 50 and older who divorce experience a 45% decline in their standard of living, compared to 21% for men.
Whether you are male, female, divorced, widowed, or living alone by choice, planning for life as you age is imperative. This is especially true for solo agers who are still working and planning for their future while also caring for aging loved ones. It also applies to those who are already in retirement.
Here are vital topics to consider when creating an aging plan:
Housing Options:
Most people prefer to “age in place.” However, a large multistory home might be unsafe or too costly to maintain. Consider moving to a single-story, smaller home with lower expenses. Other housing options include 55+ Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Nursing Homes. Moving to a more community-type living option can also provide the social engagement needed during our golden years.
Financial/Retirement Planning:
As a solo ager, you must rely on yourself, so prioritize having savings, investments, and a retirement plan. Working early on with a wealth manager or financial planner may give you the guidance you need.
Medical Care Planning:
Health problems become more complex with age. You might find you need a doctor who is more knowledgeable in the aging disease processes, like a Geriatrician or Internist who specializes in treating older patients. Additionally, consider a geriatric care manager or Aging Life Care Professional. These experienced professionals can attend appointments, manage health and human services, and function as your advocate.
Coordination and Communication with Family:
If you are making plans for older parents, the use of trusted professionals is also beneficial. It will help remove some of the burden from your shoulders. Plus, if you are collaborating with siblings or other loved ones on difficult decisions, ensuring a more neutral third-party is available helps to facilitate conversations.
Legal Documents:
Here are some important documents and issues to discuss and consider.
- Elder Attorneys specialize in documents like advance directives, living wills, and medical and durable power of attorney and ensure they are in order.
- Elder law firms can replace the role of family members by arranging legal documentation to ensure your wishes are carried out.
- A diagnosis of dementia or incapacity may occur before death. Having a designated healthcare agent to follow through on your medical treatment plans, end-of-life decisions, and hospice care is crucial.
- Healthcare providers can assist in creating an Out of Hospital Do Not Resuscitate directive. This form instructs emergency medical personnel and other health care professionals to forgo resuscitation attempts. It also allows the patient to have a natural death with peace and dignity.
According to the Aging Life Care Association, solo agers and all seniors need various services to maintain their independence at home. These services include:
- In-home care agencies
- Medication management
- Nutrition and meal support
- Mobility and transportation assistance
- Money management
- Safety and security
- Opportunities for social interaction
We all want to age when, where and how we think is best for ourselves and our loved ones. It’s a worthwhile and attainable goal. Be prepared with a comprehensive aging life plan!
Helen Trowsdale , RN, BSN, Quality Improvement Officer and Aging Life Care Professional
Avenues Home Care
“Your Journey, Our Care.”