Aging solo is not as unusual as it may seem. Consider that an estimated 27% of Americans over the age of 60 do not have a spouse, a child, or another family member nearby to see them through their retirement years. Going it alone later in life does present certain challenges that need to be addressed before they become insurmountable. The key is to have a plan in place should any problems arise.
Here are some key areas where experts say planning ahead is crucial:
- Seek out legal advice — Solo seniors should not leave their financial or legal care to chance. Seek the advice of a lawyer to help set up a power of attorney for health and financial decisions. You will almost certainly need this document at some point.. You will also want to find someone you can trust to carry out your wishes.
- Realize it takes a village — For seniors living alone, life can feel very isolating without the company of friends and family nearby. It is important at this stage of life to remain connected to the community by participating in social activities. Experts say that without these connections, aging adults can become depressed. Above all, depression has an impact on mental and physical well-being. Joining a nearby senior community center that offers group fitness classes, arts and crafts, card games, and/or cooking or book clubs is one way to connect with people who share similar passions. Volunteering at a local school to help children with their homework is a rewarding use of your time. Be sure to reach out to neighbors who can help you in an emergency or check in on you. If you are aging in place, consider hiring a part-time caregiver to offer companionship and, if needed, to help with mobility issues.
- Keep it safe — You will want to make sure you’re not one of the 3 million older adults who wind up in an emergency room after falling each year. Make your home as safe as possible by eliminating tripping hazards. Secure area rugs, remove clutter, hide extension cords, and add grab bars in your bathroom. A medical alert system would be helpful if a situation arises in which you need medical attention and cannot reach your phone.
- Take it easy — If you live in your own home, hire professionals to do the heavy lifting necessary to maintain your home. Ask your neighbors for recommendations for landscapers, housecleaners, or caregivers who can lend you a hand with the chores. You’ve earned it. Why not use this new spare time for self-care? Getting massages and facials, eating healthy, keeping doctors’ appointments, and exercising regularly all help keep you looking and feeling your best.
- Keep the brain engaged — To stave off cognitive difficulties, try challenging yourself to learn something new. Now may be the best time to learn a musical instrument, a foreign language, or a new ballroom dance. For one thing, you can check out a nearby college or university to see whether they allow seniors to take classes. Generally, schools will even allow you to attend without paying tuition or at greatly reduced fees. This could be the time to earn the degree you always meant to complete.
Aging alone does not need to be a time of worry or anxiety. The thoughtful choices you make now will ensure that your solo golden years are as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
In a world where senior citizens often face isolation and loneliness, understanding the power of connection is more crucial than ever. Our comprehensive free report, Enhancing Senior Well-Being: Aging In Place With Confidence, delves into the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social engagements have on the well-being of older adults. You can click here for the link to download this free resource.
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