By Dr. Macie Smith
As our society continues to evolve, so does the way we experience aging. Today, more adults are entering later life without close family nearby to rely on, a group often referred to as “solo agers.” While it may seem surprising, this is becoming increasingly common.
Families simply look different from the way they did in the past. People are getting married later, sometimes not at all, and many are choosing not to have children. Even when family is part of the picture, they may live far away or be balancing their own responsibilities.
As a result, more individuals are navigating aging on their own, which makes planning ahead more important than ever. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “What happens if I need care and don’t have family nearby?” just know you’re not alone. The good news is, with the right preparation, you can approach your solo aging journey with confidence and peace of mind.
Start with a Plan You Can Feel Good About
If you’re aging solo, having a plan in place isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. One of the best places to start is with a certified elder law attorney. I know that might sound intimidating, but their role is actually very supportive. They can help you understand your finances, map out how to pay for care down the road and even connect you with someone who can step in to manage your finances if you ever need that support.
Another person I strongly recommend having in your corner is a geriatric care manager. Think of them as your guide through the aging process. They know the system, they know the resources, and they can help you make sense of your options without feeling overwhelmed.
The Financial Reality No One Talks About Enough
One of the biggest concerns I see is how to pay for care, especially the kind that helps with everyday living, like bathing, cooking, or getting around the house. These are things many of us will need at some point, but they’re not typically covered by Medicare.
That’s why I always encourage people to start exploring their options early. Visit communities. Ask questions. Look at independent living and assisted living settings, and don’t be afraid to ask about costs, including monthly fees and any upfront buy-ins. The more you understand now, the more confident you’ll feel later.
What If Managing Money Becomes Too Much?
This is a real concern for many people, and it’s okay to talk about it. If handling finances becomes difficult, a professional conservator can step in to help manage things responsibly. An elder law attorney can guide you through setting this up in a way that protects you and your wishes.
Finding the Right Place to Call Home
If you’re thinking about where you might live as you age, I often recommend looking into continuing care retirement communities. What I love about these communities is that they grow with you. You might start in independent living, but as your needs change, you can access more support without uprooting your life.
There’s something incredibly comforting about knowing you won’t have to make a major move during an already vulnerable time.
Don’t think of solo aging as being unsupported; think of it as being more intentional about what you want your future to be. With the right planning, the right professionals in your corner, and a willingness to take those first steps, you can create a future that feels more secure.
For more information on how to prep for your solo-aging journey, visit SYNERGY HomeCare or call (877) 432-2692.
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SYNERGY HomeCare offers no obligation home assessments. Find a location near you or contact us to learn how we can provide additional support to you and your loved ones.
Dr. Macie P. Smith is a licensed gerontology social worker who is focused on helping families support their aging loved ones through long-term care. Specifically, Dr. Smith educates caregivers on how to care for seniors with dementia. She is an advocate for specialized care and assists others in finding a way to provide a better quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Dr. Smith has dedicated over 22 years of her life working in gerontology and assisting families in finding personalized solutions for dementia care. For more articles by Dr. Macie Smith, click here.
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