Thriving on your own as you age: Tips and strategies.

During their golden years, an increasing number of adults are choosing to live alone.

According to Sara Zeff Geber, Ph.D., solo agers are just as healthy, happy, and long-lived as other older adults, as shown in studies.

Some individuals encounter difficulties that can significantly affect their health and happiness.

Below, experts offer advice on how to be a successful solo ager.

What is solo aging?

Geber defined a solo ager as someone who lacks nearby family members who can intervene in a crisis and offer support when needed.

By choice or circumstance, some individuals choose to become solo agers, such as not having children or the loss of a spouse or child.

According to 2023 data from the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 28% of individuals aged 65 and above live alone, which translates to 22 million older adults.

A 2021 AARP report indicates that about 12% of adults aged 50 and above are classified as "solo agers."

"Solo agers have been shown to be as healthy and happy as other older adults and live just as long."

Solo aging, which presents unique challenges and considerations, has become more prominent in recent decades, according to Bei Wu, Ph.D., vice dean for research at the NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, who told Planet Chronicle Digital.

Different cultures also view autonomy differently as adults get older.

Gerontological research has focused on the challenges faced by older adults in China who lack children, the ability to work, and income, according to Wu, who specializes in studying social isolation and aging.

The expert pointed out that solo agers may struggle to obtain social, emotional, and practical support due to a lack of support from friends and family.

The absence of a caregiver when a person is sick can result in delays in receiving required medical care.

According to the AARP report, only an estimated one-third of solo agers have someone to assist with managing their households and handling day-to-day expenses if they are unable to do so.

As they age, solo seniors face increased financial vulnerability due to decreased resources for managing healthcare, housing, and daily living expenses, according to Wu.

The importance of planning ahead

Ailene Gerhardt, a solo aging educator and patient advocate in Massachusetts, advised Planet Chronicle Digital that for solo agers, the crucial resources should concentrate on three primary areas: community engagement, financial and estate planning, and health care advocacy.

Gerhardt, the founder of The Navigating Solo Network, recommends developing two types of networks.

One should consist of professionals who can advocate for legal and medical needs, while the other might contain friends and acquaintances who provide additional support.

Gerhardt advised that solo agers should prioritize organizing their plans for both the short and long term, including determining the type of care and support they require and do not require if they are unable to advocate for themselves.

An expert advised that it is important to have a will that outlines how assets should be distributed and an advance directive that specifies one's wishes for life-sustaining treatment if they are unable to make the decision.

AARP reports that only about half of solo agers have an advance directive, and out of those, only 44% have shared it with their primary care doctor.

Designating a durable power of attorney (DPA) is an important part of creating an advance directive, which allows the person to have someone speak on their behalf during times of illness or incapacitation.

It is advised to select a trustworthy individual who is older but not yet affected by the same aging issues.

Cultivating social connections

Studies demonstrate that individuals who prioritize friendships tend to experience better health and happiness.

A study found that older adults who don't form friendships may be less likely to receive emotional support from friends, which can increase their exposure to negative emotions resulting from life changes.

Experts suggest that building social connections organically can be achieved by relocating to a community with an established support system.

A national organization called Village to Village Network offers resources and support to help seniors age in their communities.

Members are integrated into a local community that provides assistance and chances to build social relationships.

The Village to Village Network in New Jersey offers a variety of services, including social and educational programs, health and wellness activities, practical support like transportation, home maintenance, and technology coaching, as Barbara Sullivan, the national director, shared with Planet Chronicle Digital.

"Through offering diverse resources and support, they encourage a feeling of community and self-sufficiency."

According to Wu, the NYU gerontologist, technology can facilitate these connections.

Older adults can remain connected with family and friends through video calls and social media platforms, regardless of the distance, as stated by her to Planet Chronicle Digital.

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Senior centers, community organizations, and churches are great places for solo agers to stay active and socially connected, as encouraged by Wu.