In this episode, we’re tackling a topic that’s increasingly relevant: Solo Agers. You might be wondering, “What exactly is a Solo Ager?” Well, it’s someone who, for various reasons, finds themselves navigating later life without the traditional support system of a spouse, children, or even immediate family. This could mean:
- No children
- No spouse
- No surviving family members
- Or perhaps, you simply can’t rely on someone in your life for support.
And let me tell you, this isn’t as uncommon as you might think. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that a significant 28% of the U.S. population is 65 or older. And of that group, a staggering 16 million people live alone. Just 75 years ago, that number was much lower, around 10%. The landscape of aging is changing, and we need to adapt our planning to it.
Building Your Support System and Plan
If you’re a Solo Ager, having a robust support system and a solid plan in place is absolutely crucial. When you don’t have family or a spouse to lean on, your support system can come from many places:
- Friends: Old friends, new friends – cultivating these relationships is vital.
- Extended Family: Nieces, nephews, cousins – these individuals can become important figures in your life.
- Designated Third Parties: This is where legal planning comes in. You need to specifically name individuals who are authorized to make medical and financial decisions for you. Think about privacy and HIPAA rules – you’ll need to grant them explicit authority.
- Reliable Individuals: Identify people you trust implicitly.
Beyond who, we need to consider what. Your plan should definitely include:
- Estate Planning: This isn’t just for the wealthy. Everyone needs healthcare documents in place, outlining your wishes for medical care.
- Living Arrangements: Seriously assess your current home. Is it safe? Accessible? Are there mobility hazards? Proactively addressing these can prevent future crises.
- Safe Transportation: How will you get around as you age? Plan for reliable and safe transportation options.
- Financial Security: I can’t stress this enough. Spend time with a professional to understand your financial landscape and how you’ll pay for your long-term planning and care.
- Social Interaction: This is key to avoiding isolation and depression. Find activities that genuinely interest you and seek out opportunities for connection.
Additional Estate Planning Concerns for Solo Agers
When you don’t have a direct line of heirs, your inheritance planning takes on a different shape. Think about:
- Friends, Extended Family, or “Like-Family” Individuals: These people can be designated beneficiaries.
- Charitable Giving: Your church, favorite charities, or community organizations can be wonderful recipients of your legacy.
- Avoiding Default: Without a plan, your property could go to distant relatives you barely know, or worse, to the state. Don’t let that happen!
When It’s Time to Reassess Living at Home
Sometimes, despite our best intentions, staying at home might not be the safest option. Here are some signs to look for, either in yourself or in someone you care about, that might indicate it’s time to reassess living situations:
- Forgetting to take medications, missing appointments, or getting lost in familiar places.
- Unexplained weight loss, or consistently forgetting or ignoring meals.
- Changes in hygiene – being unbathed or wearing the same clothes for extended periods.
- Frequent falls, hospitalizations, or a new medical diagnosis that impacts independent living.
The Silver Tsunami is here. The numbers of Solo Agers and the general 65+ population are growing significantly. A new 2025 study by the National Council on Aging highlights this “Silver Tsunami”:
- Currently, 30% of the population is 65+.
- By 2030, all Baby Boomers will be over 65.
- By 2040, an astounding 78.3 million Americans will be over 65.
This means that having these conversations – whether you initiate them as a Solo Ager or someone in your circle brings them up – is more important than ever.
Exploring Your Options
There are many alternative living arrangements to consider:
Living with Family or Friends: Building “mother-in-law suites” is a great way to avoid the high cost of nursing home care while maintaining connection.
Independent Living Communities: These offer community and amenities while allowing you to maintain your independence.
More Supportive Living Options: Depending on your needs, there are various levels of assisted living available.
Kiplinger’s 7 Questions for Solo Agers
Here are some questions to determine how to navigate being a Solo Ager and whether you should “go it alone.” The answers to these questions can help you identify resources and backup plans.
- Who will you call if you have an emergency at 2 AM? This is a critical question for everyone.
- Do you know how to plan? What should be included? Where should you go for help? Is this something you can do yourself, or do you need assistance?
- What local professional resources do you have? If you don’t have them, get them! Think financial advisors, elder care attorneys, and geriatric care managers.
- What financial documents do you need?
- What medical documents? (Think Advance Directives, Living Wills, Powers of Attorney for Healthcare).
- What if you didn’t plan to be a Solo Ager, and now your circumstances have changed? Life happens, and it’s okay to adjust your plans.
- Do you need to go it alone? Remember, “alone” can easily lead to isolation and depression. Explore community groups, activities that align with your interests, and consider your budget for these options.
Remember, planning for your future as a Solo Ager is about empowerment and ensuring your wishes are honored. It’s about building a life that is secure, connected, and fulfilling.
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this website and on the podcast is not intended to be considered as legal advice or constitute an attorney/client relationship as provided under the Tennessee Rules of Professional Conduct.
