KFF Health News/JAHF Event: Going It Alone with Navigating Aging columnist, Judith Graham

KFF Health News and The John A. Hartford Foundation are holding a virtual event December 11, "Going It Alone," featuring KFF Health News' Navigating Aging columnist, Judith Graham.

Graham spent six months talking to older adults living alone about their hopes and fears, their challenges and strategies for aging solo. This webinar will feature six of the older adults in Graham's series discussing what it's like to grow old on their own.

Register here!
Learn more about the KFF event.
Explore more articles from Judith Graham.

Solo Aging All-Stars Roundtable Discussion

Join the Positive Aging Community for an engaging and informative live & interactive session with three Solo Aging Authors to share their knowledge and best practices. 

• Carol Marak, Author of Solo and Smart 

• Beverly Bernstein Joie, Author of Solo Wise 

• Joy Loverde, Author of Who Will Take Care of Me When I'm Old?

Register here

Community Webinar! Chart Your Solo Journey: Planning for an Independent Future

The Massachusetts law firm Surprenant & Beneski, PC is hosting a Community Webinar! Chart Your Solo Journey: Planning for an Independent Future, Tuesday, December 3, 2024, 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm

Topics to include:

• Why advance planning is key for solo agers

• The importance of building your personal support team

• The legal documents you should have in place:

  • Health Care Proxy

  • HIPAA Authorization

  • Advance Directive

  • Durable Power of Attorney

• Community Resources

To reserve your spot, call 508-972-8200 or register online. Register to receive a recorded version if you cannot make the live webinar! A link will be sent to registraints prior to the event!

All details and registration here!

Milton Council on Aging Solo Aging 5 Part Series: The Unique Needs of Solo Agers

On Wednesday, September 11, the Milton COA will launch a five-part in person series on the Unique Needs of Solo Agers.

Research tells us:

• 27% of adults aged 60 and older in the U.S. live alone

• 36% of "Baby Boomers" live in single-person households

• 30% of respondents to a Pew Research survey with children would prefer not to involve them in their care as they age

Workshops will meet for five sessions from September 11 through November 20, 2024 (9/11, 9/18, 10/9, 10/16, and 11/20) on Wednesday afternoons from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Milton COA.

Registration is REQUIRED and open to all.

Topics to be covered during the workshops include:

• September 11: The Unique Planning Needs of Solo Agers

• September 18: Health Care Decision Making and the Value of Advance Care Planning

• October 9: Evaluating, Assessing, and Enhancing Your Support System

• October 16: Where You Live Matters: Exploring What the Best Housing Options Are For You

• November 20: Bringing It All Together: Developing An Organized Solo Aging Plan

Funding for the program is through a grant from the Massachusetts Councils on Aging and there is no charge to participate. We do ask those who register to make a commitment to attend most of the workshops. The workshop series is open to all.

Participants may be asked to complete anonymous surveys several times during the series. These surveys are designed to gauge the effectiveness of the workshops and to ensure that we are meeting your needs.

Registration Required: Call the COA at (617) 898-4893

Navigating Solo Summer 2024 Virtual Get Together, November 14, 2024, 6:45 pm ET

Join us for a solo aging panel discussion for solo agers by solo agers! Hear about other's experiences and share your own.

• Connect with other "solos!"

• Access useful resources! FREE and open to anyone in any location who identifies as a solo ager!

PLEASE NOTE: Data provided during registration is for the use of The Navigating Solo™ Network only and will not be shared with any outside parties.

FREE and Open to Anyone in Any Location Who Identifies As a Solo Ager!

Don’t miss out! Make sure you secure your spot: REGISTER HERE!

Uptown Interagency Council on Aging, New York City, NY Online Program:
Sage Perspectives on Solo Aging:  

While aging solo can be a liberating journey, it also brings unique questions.

How best to plan ahead? Who will handle the bills for a person who is solo and incapacitated?

What about a will? Power of Attorney? How to build community? ‘

Join the conversation as our experts explore the unique concerns, and offer suggestions, for navigating the financial, legal and social aspects for this important and growing community.

Register Here!

Senior Law Day Collaborative: Solo Aging: Practical Planning & Resources

Wednesday, October 30, 2024, 10:00 AM

Many people are facing aging more independently than in past generations, due to lifestyle choice/circumstance or the recent death/relocation of a loved one. An Attorney and a Daily Money Manager will present a menu of issues to consider, including assembling a team of advisors/caregivers, setting up advanced directives, and funding long-term care. We will cover resources requiring a fee and those provided for free via the government and nonprofit organizations.

Register Here

Milton Council on Aging Solo Aging 5 Part Series: The Unique Needs of Solo Agers

On Wednesday, September 11, the Milton COA will launch a five-part in person series on the Unique Needs of Solo Agers.

Research tells us:

• 27% of adults aged 60 and older in the U.S. live alone

• 36% of "Baby Boomers" live in single-person households

• 30% of respondents to a Pew Research survey with children would prefer not to involve them in their care as they age

Workshops will meet for five sessions from September 11 through November 20, 2024 (9/11, 9/18, 10/9, 10/16, and 11/20) on Wednesday afternoons from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Milton COA.

Registration is REQUIRED and open to all.

Topics to be covered during the workshops include:

• September 11: The Unique Planning Needs of Solo Agers

• September 18: Health Care Decision Making and the Value of Advance Care Planning

• October 9: Evaluating, Assessing, and Enhancing Your Support System

• October 16: Where You Live Matters: Exploring What the Best Housing Options Are For You

• November 20: Bringing It All Together: Developing An Organized Solo Aging Plan

Funding for the program is through a grant from the Massachusetts Councils on Aging and there is no charge to participate. We do ask those who register to make a commitment to attend most of the workshops. The workshop series is open to all.

Participants may be asked to complete anonymous surveys several times during the series. These surveys are designed to gauge the effectiveness of the workshops and to ensure that we are meeting your needs.

Registration Required: Call the COA at (617)898-4893

Methuen Senior Activity Center In Person Sunset Seminar Mini-Series

Unique Planning Needs of Solo Agers, In Person, 5:30 p.m., Methuen, Massachusetts

The Sunset Seminar is part of the extended evening hours programming kicking off in Fall 2024. The Methuen Senior Activity Center is celebrating 40 years, and as part of our anniversary year, we are launching new programs and initiatives, including our Sunset Seminars.

These seminars are focused on equipping our older adults with the tools to age well and will cover a variety of topics including solo aging, caregiving, health, and wellness, and more.

More details coming soon! Registration will be required!

Milton Council on Aging Solo Aging 5 Part Series: The Unique Needs of Solo Agers

On Wednesday, September 11, the Milton COA will launch a five-part in person series on the Unique Needs of Solo Agers.

Research tells us:

• 27% of adults aged 60 and older in the U.S. live alone

• 36% of "Baby Boomers" live in single-person households

• 30% of respondents to a Pew Research survey with children would prefer not to involve them in their care as they age

Workshops will meet for five sessions from September 11 through November 20, 2024 (9/11, 9/18, 10/9, 10/16, and 11/20) on Wednesday afternoons from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Milton COA.

Registration is REQUIRED and open to all.

Topics to be covered during the workshops include:

• September 11: The Unique Planning Needs of Solo Agers

• September 18: Health Care Decision Making and the Value of Advance Care Planning

• October 9: Evaluating, Assessing, and Enhancing Your Support System

• October 16: Where You Live Matters: Exploring What the Best Housing Options Are For You

• November 20: Bringing It All Together: Developing An Organized Solo Aging Plan

Funding for the program is through a grant from the Massachusetts Councils on Aging and there is no charge to participate. We do ask those who register to make a commitment to attend most of the workshops. The workshop series is open to all.

Participants may be asked to complete anonymous surveys several times during the series. These surveys are designed to gauge the effectiveness of the workshops and to ensure that we are meeting your needs.

Registration Required: Call the COA at (617)898-4893

Save the date! Oct. 9 is Ageism Awareness Day!

Join with others across the country to draw attention to the existence and impact of ageism in our society and how we can reframe aging in our communities. https://asaging.org/ageism-awareness

Navigating Solo™ 201: Advanced Insights for Aging Well (Online Paid Course)

Registration Is Now Open!
Please take the Eastern Time Zone start time into account!
Each session is one hour long and will be hosted on Zoom!

Navigating Solo 201 Meeting Dates, Tuesdays, 6:45 pm ET, 5:45 pm CT, 4:45 pm MT, 3:45 pm PT:
October 8, October 15, October 22, October 29, November 12, November 19

ABOUT OUR COURSE SESSIONS:

Join Ailene Gerhardt, Board Certified Patient Advocate and national Solo Aging Expert, for a comprehensive 6-part series designed for seasoned solo agers (adults 55+ without a reliable support system). Dive into advanced strategies and practical insights to navigate the unique challenges of solo aging, and discover local and national resources to support you along the way. This empowering series is not to be missed!

Learn more here!

Celebrate Good Neighbor Day on September 28, 2024!

• Nationally: https://www.nationalgoodneighborday.org/

• Massachusetts Good Neighbor Day brought to you by the Massachusetts Coalition to Build Community and End Loneliness: https://www.endlonelinessma.com/gnd2024

For solo agers, connection and community aren’t just important — they are essential! Whether it’s checking in on a neighbor, sharing a meal, or simply saying hello, these small acts build the meaningful relationships we all need.Let’s strengthen our bonds, share stories, and create connections that enrich lives.

Are you seeking resources designed specifically for solo agers? The Navigating Solo Network™ offers solo agers ways to make new connections, share experiences, and enhance support networks. Let’s make every day feel like Good Neighbor Day!

Learn more on the National Good Neighbor Day website! Visit the Massachusetts Coalition to Build Community and End Loneliness to learn more about Good Neighbor Day in Massachusetts!

Milton Council on Aging Solo Aging 5 Part Series: The Unique Needs of Solo Agers

On Wednesday, September 11, the Milton COA will launch a five-part in person series on the Unique Needs of Solo Agers.

Research tells us:

• 27% of adults aged 60 and older in the U.S. live alone

• 36% of "Baby Boomers" live in single-person households

• 30% of respondents to a Pew Research survey with children would prefer not to involve them in their care as they age

Workshops will meet for five sessions from September 11 through November 20, 2024 (9/11, 9/18, 10/9, 10/16, and 11/20) on Wednesday afternoons from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Milton COA.

Registration is REQUIRED and open to all.

Topics to be covered during the workshops include:

• September 11: The Unique Planning Needs of Solo Agers

• September 18: Health Care Decision Making and the Value of Advance Care Planning

• October 9: Evaluating, Assessing, and Enhancing Your Support System

• October 16: Where You Live Matters: Exploring What the Best Housing Options Are For You

• November 20: Bringing It All Together: Developing An Organized Solo Aging Plan

Funding for the program is through a grant from the Massachusetts Councils on Aging and there is no charge to participate. We do ask those who register to make a commitment to attend most of the workshops. The workshop series is open to all.

Participants may be asked to complete anonymous surveys several times during the series. These surveys are designed to gauge the effectiveness of the workshops and to ensure that we are meeting your needs.

Registration Required: Call the COA at (617)898-4893

Milton Council on Aging Solo Aging 5 Part Series: The Unique Needs of Solo Agers

On Wednesday, September 11, the Milton COA will launch a five-part in person series on the Unique Needs of Solo Agers.

Research tells us:

• 27% of adults aged 60 and older in the U.S. live alone

• 36% of "Baby Boomers" live in single-person households

• 30% of respondents to a Pew Research survey with children would prefer not to involve them in their care as they age

Workshops will meet for five sessions from September 11 through November 20, 2024 (9/11, 9/18, 10/9, 10/16, and 11/20) on Wednesday afternoons from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Milton COA.

Registration is REQUIRED and open to all.

Topics to be covered during the workshops include:

• September 11: The Unique Planning Needs of Solo Agers

• September 18: Health Care Decision Making and the Value of Advance Care Planning

• October 9: Evaluating, Assessing, and Enhancing Your Support System

• October 16: Where You Live Matters: Exploring What the Best Housing Options Are For You

• November 20: Bringing It All Together: Developing An Organized Solo Aging Plan

Funding for the program is through a grant from the Massachusetts Councils on Aging and there is no charge to participate. We do ask those who register to make a commitment to attend most of the workshops. The workshop series is open to all.

Participants may be asked to complete anonymous surveys several times during the series. These surveys are designed to gage the effectiveness of the workshops and to ensure that we are meeting your needs.

Registration Required: Call the COA at (617)898-4893

AARP Online Event: Solo Aging: Attitudes, Experiences & Next Steps

About the Event 

This virtual discussion, part of AARP California’s Tea & Coffee Tuesdays series, will feature Laura Skufca from the AARP Research Division, who will present key results from AARP’s 2022 Solo Agers study. A survey of experiences of those aged 50 and older who are aging alone, the report looked at solo agers’ habits, attitudes about their life today and in the future, concerns, and preparations and plans for their health, financial and social well-being. Skufca will lead a discussion on takeaways, recommendations and resources for solo agers from the study and other sources.  

How to Join 

Sign in to your AARP.org account or create an account to register for events. AARP membership is not required. You will receive an email with the Zoom link before class. 

More details here!

Living Alone? Where You Live Matters.

While aging in place is a preferred option for many older adults, people who live alone have a unique set of concerns that may be solved by making a move to a senior living community. Join us for a live and interactive discussion where we will discuss “The 2030 Problem” and other trends that will greatly impact the ability to age-in-place. 

Joy Loverde best selling author of… 

• Who Will Take Care Of Me When I’m Old? 

• The Complete Eldercare Planner, 4th Edition 

This discussion is a partnership with the Residences at Vantage Point, Life Care Services and Positive Aging Community

All Details Here (Link to the Positive Aging Community Website)

Boomer Banter Podcast: Knowing how to Conquer the Health Care Maze is Crucial to Aging Well

Navigating the complexities of healthcare can be staggering, especially for families managing the challenges of aging or chronic conditions. In our upcoming episode of Boomer Banter, we’re sitting down with Patient Advocate Nancy Ruffner, a seasoned expert dedicated to helping families find the support they need.

Nancy’s mission is clear: to ensure you and your loved ones receive the care you deserve, by advising and advocating for you and your loved ones in healthcare situations. We will discuss some of the challenges faced by adult children dealing with a healthcare crisis of their parent. We will look at how solo agers can get the care they need. We will understand how advocates can help make sense of insurance claims, home health care, hospital bills, etc.

In a world that can often feel overwhelming, and during a time that can feel overwhelming we can all use some guidance.

Join us live on Monday, August 19 at 1:00pm ET, or find the recording wherever you listen to podcasts.

Navigating Solo Summer 2024 Virtual Get Together, August 15, 2024, 6:45 pm ET

Our program will begin with a brief presentation by Solo Aging Educator Ailene Gerhardt about "Living a Dynamic Life" as one navigates solo aging!

Are you interested in identifying new interests and pursuing creative endeavors? This engaging session will explore the endless possibilities of creative aging and how it can bring joy, purpose, and personal growth to your life.

What to Expect During Our Gathering:

- A dynamic presentation about lifelong learning and creative expression

- Small and large group discussions to share ideas and connect with each other

Whether you’re already exploring new passions or looking for that spark to ignite your creativity, this event is for anyone who identifies as a solo ager!

FREE and Open to Anyone in Any Location Who Identifies As a Solo Ager!

Don’t miss out! Make sure you secure your spot: REGISTER HERE!

Let’s embrace the power of creative aging together. See you there!

Navigating Solo Aging: Addressing Unique Needs and Building Support 
In-Person at the Brookline Senior Center, Brookline, MA

Whether you self-identify as a ‘solo’ ager (an adult 55+ who, because of choice or circumstance, is without the reliable support of adult children or close family members) now or may do so in the future or simply know others who might, this program is for you. We will explore the unique needs, concerns, and priorities of those navigating aging without a reliable support system. During our overview discussion will review needs related to navigating healthcare and building community, as well as strategies, and tips for avoiding loneliness and isolation. Tools for identifying and creating support systems will also be suggested. Attendees will leave this talk with useful resources and questions answered.  You can learn more about Ailene and her work with solo agers: https://www.beaconpatientsolutions.com/ourworkwithsoloagers. Don't miss out on this opportunity to hear from a nationally known sol oaging thought leader—reserve your spot today!  

This program is generously cosponsored by Hattieʹs Caring Hands Home Care. 

Registration Required: (617) 730-2770 

Online: Empower Your Solo Aging Journey: Essential Strategies For Thriving Independently with Nancy Ruffner

​Join Nancy Ruffner for a discussion about Solo Aging as it is today, navigating the challenges, and finding solutions towards successful aging. This webinar is sponsored by Visiting Angels as part of their Coffee Chat series.
​
Register here.

Monthly Navigating Solo Discussion Drop In

Are you interested in connecting with other solo agers whenever your schedule allows? Our monthly drop in session will offer the opportunity to connect with others, share resources, express concerns, and more!

$10 per session, April 11, May 9, June 13, 2024

All Details Available January 2024

Join the Navigating Solo Network for our SAVvy Day Celebration!

SAVvy Day: Solo Aging Visibility Day on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, is a national initiative aimed at shining a spotlight on the unique experiences, challenges, skills, and strengths of individuals navigating the aging journey without the reliable support of adult children or close family members.

The purpose is to raise awareness, foster understanding, and build a supportive community that recognizes the independence, creativity, tenacity, and contributions of solo agers. Through events, advocacy, and educational initiatives, SAVvy: Solo Aging Visibility Day seeks to empower individuals, encourage dialogue, and promote a more inclusive approach to navigating solo.

Join our SAVvy Day Celebration! Hear about other's experiences, share your own, and learn from others! Access useful resources!

FREE and open to anyone in any location who identifies as a solo ager!

Register here!

Monthly Navigating Solo Discussion Drop In

Are you interested in connecting with other solo agers whenever your schedule allows? Our monthly drop in session will offer the opportunity to connect with others, share resources, express concerns, and more!

$10 per session, April 11, May 9, June 13, 2024

All Details Available January 2024

This Session is Part of the
North Andover Senior Center’s Annual Conference on Aging

Navigating Solo: Tools for Creating Your Plan for Aging Well
Session 5: Bringing It All Together: Developing an Organized Solo Aging Plan

In-Person 5 part series offered by Ailene Gerhardt, MA, BCPA, CSA, Solo Aging Educator, in partnership with the North Andover Senior Center and the Stevens Memorial Library

Join Ailene Gerhardt, Board Certified Patient Advocate at Beacon Patient Solutions LLC, as she explores the unique considerations and planning needs of solo agers.  She will review specific needs related to healthcare, community and programs and resources available to support your journey.

In Person Event: register by contacting the North Andover Senior Center: (978) 688-9560. 

View the Program Flyer here!

Navigating Solo: Tools for Creating Your Plan for Aging Well
Session 4: Assessing and Enhancing Your Support System

In-Person 5 part series offered by Ailene Gerhardt, MA, BCPA, CSA, Solo Aging Educator, in partnership with the North Andover Senior Center and the Stevens Memorial Library

Join Ailene Gerhardt, Board Certified Patient Advocate at Beacon Patient Solutions LLC, as she explores the unique considerations and planning needs of solo agers.  She will review specific needs related to healthcare, community and programs and resources available to support your journey.

In Person Event: register by contacting the North Andover Senior Center: (978) 688-9560. 

To register for the remaining session of this In-Person series:    

• Session 5: May 4: Bringing It All Together: Developing an Organized Solo Aging Plan, please register by contacting the North Andover Senior Center: (978) 688-9560. 
  

  View the Program Flyer here!

Navigating Solo: Tools for Creating Your Plan for Aging Well
Session 3 : Evaluating Your Support System

In-Person 5 part series offered by Ailene Gerhardt, MA, BCPA, CSA, Solo Aging Educator, in partnership with the North Andover Senior Center and the Stevens Memorial Library

Join Ailene Gerhardt, Board Certified Patient Advocate at Beacon Patient Solutions LLC, as she explores the unique considerations and planning needs of solo agers.  She will review specific needs related to healthcare, community and programs and resources available to support your journey.

In Person Event: register by contacting the North Andover Senior Center: (978) 688-9560. 

To register for the remaining sessions of this In-Person series:    

• Session 4: April 30: Assessing and Enhancing Your Support System, please register by contacting the North Andover Senior Center: (978) 688-9560. 

• Session 5: May 4: Bringing It All Together: Developing an Organized Solo Aging Plan, please register by contacting the North Andover Senior Center: (978) 688-9560. 
  

  View the Program Flyer here!