Resources on the Rise for Empowering Independent Older Adults

As the aging population continues to grow, many seniors are taking proactive steps to secure their futures. Jeff Kromrey, 69, plans to guide his daughter through his online accounts during her next visit, anticipating unexpected health issues. Similarly, Gayle Williams-Brett, also 69, is finally addressing her financial organization after months of delay. Meanwhile, Michael Davis, 71, aims to draft a living will and designate a friend as his health care surrogate and estate executor.

These individuals find themselves motivated by an innovative program called Aging Alone Together, offered by Dorot, a social services agency in New York City. Designed for those without immediate family support, the program addresses the unique challenges faced by “solo agers,” a term used for older adults living independently.

The landscape for solo agers has changed substantially over recent years. Once overlooked, this demographic now accesses various resources, including Facebook groups, in-person meetups, and national webinars. These initiatives aim to combat isolation and prepare seniors for the complexities of aging alone.

Ailene Gerhardt, a patient advocate in Boston, emphasizes the importance of building support systems. Gerhardt founded the Navigating Solo Network to assist seniors without family to rely on. Research from AARP reveals that 10% of individuals aged 50 and older live alone and have no children. An additional 11% are estranged from their children, and 13% have children who cannot assist with financial or healthcare matters.

For many, preparing for aging can feel isolated and overwhelming. Gerhardt observes that without a community, seniors may forgo necessary planning altogether. Dorot’s Aging Alone Together tackles this issue through group-based sessions, enabling participants to share concerns while devising actionable steps for their futures.

Participants engage in six weekly interactive sessions covering vital topics like community building, housing decisions, legal directives, and financial organization. Claire Nisen, who leads the program, notes that it also seeks to alleviate the fear many older adults experience about their futures. “Solo aging doesn’t mean aging alone,” she frequently reminds attendees.

This message resonated with Williams-Brett, who cares for her 97-year-old mother in Brooklyn. Feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities, she initially struggled with self-judgment but found solace in shared experiences during the sessions. “We all have issues we’re dealing with,” she recognized during the program.

Kromrey, who lives alone in Florida, is grateful for his health and family connections. He plans to share important online information with his daughter during her Thanksgiving visit to ensure she can manage his affairs if needed. “That way, she’ll just be able to take right over if something unexpected occurs,” he said.

Davis, who lives in Manhattan, finds himself isolated as his art career becomes limited due to health issues. He acknowledges his growing disconnection from the outside world and now seeks more social engagement through Dorot and the Aging Alone Together program. “There are days that go by when I don’t say a word to anyone,” he admitted.

For further information about the Aging Alone Together program, interested individuals can reach out via email or visit the program’s official website. A comprehensive resource hub for solo agers is also available through Navigating Solo. Additionally, various online communities and books offer guidance on navigating the realities of aging alone, catering to the specific needs of this demographic.