Whether by choice or due to circumstances such as divorce or death of a partner, 27% of adults ages 60 and older live alone in the US. About half of women 65 and older do so. But those who fall within the solo aging category have yet another challenge that sets them apart. They have no children or close relatives upon whom they can depend to make critical legal, medical, or financial decisions should they be unable to do so themselves.

About one-quarter of adults over age 65 are Solo, and the percentage is even larger among the oldest age groups. Yet many Solos feel like freaks. They live in a world where it’s assumed that you, like other older adults, have children and grandchildren who will play an active role as you age.

The Impact of Third Places for Solo Agers: Community centers, coffee shops, bookstores — these are just a few of the places where solo agers can make connections with others and enhance their support systems

A Google search for solo ager brings up 26 million links. Each month our blog pulls together curated resources for our clients and prospective clients. This month we focus on three important planning elements for solo agers – healthcare, housing, and financial – because there is one very critical question that needs answering:

Solo Acts: A Theatrical Compilation on Solo Aging is a generative performance designed to catalyze dialogue, raise awareness, and affirm the experience of solo agers. Thanks to Limelight Live for including us on pages 16 & 17 of the Solo Acts Monograph!

The TV show, “CONNECT: Addressing Loneliness in Massachusetts,” airs on local media channels across Massachusetts and explores various themes related to connected, healthy aging. The series is produced by Winchester Community Access & Media Inc.

In this episode, Ailene Gerhardt, MA, BCPA, independent board certified patient advocate and solo aging educator, shares tips for creatively navigating this season. This discussion was edited for length!