There are people over 55 who are referred to as solo agers. This title is applied because of their unique situation. They are older adults with no reliable support from family. They have no spouse, no adult children, and no siblings—or they may be solo agers because of their distance from family, their estrangement from family, or their dysfunctional relationship with family.
We all hope to have support as we age. And we expect most of that support to come from our children or other close family members. We believe they will be there to assist us with the ups and downs, twists and turns, and surprises aging can bring. But as a solo ager, you may require more preparation because you’ll need to plan and arrange for that missing family support.
Find a lawyer who can put the necessary paperwork (directives and legal documents) in place that will ensure your needs and requests are fully and legally executed. This paperwork can and will serve as your voice. It will be your silent, yet powerful advocate, guardian, and support system.
So how do you prepare as a solo ager? Create an outline of what you need now and any expected future needs. For example, where will you live as you age: at home, an active senior living community, or assisted living facility? Your plan needs to be mindfully thought out and feature flexibility to allow for various scenarios.
If you’re not aging in place, start researching potential living options and plan site tour visits now. Create a list of questions to take with you. Questions should highlight any disability needs, activities of daily living (ADLs), medical needs, preferred activities, independent living requirements, and anything you feel is necessary for you to age comfortably and your way.
Here are some additional things to consider as a solo ager: transportation needs, access to technology, ways to connect, downsizing, getting rid of stress enablers, a supportive social environment, and financial and estate planning. It’s all about Positive Aging!Please check out my show: TheresNoAginginVegas.com, sponsored by AARP Nevada and OLLI at UNLV.