Living alone as a senior can be tricky, even if they have family members to care for them. This is partly because, as people age, they require more care and assistance with activities of daily living. However, it will be more challenging when you realize you have to live alone.
According to the National Institute on Aging, about 20 percent of people aged 85 and older live alone. This number will only increase as the population of seniors continues to grow.
There are many reasons why living alone can be difficult for seniors. It can be hard to get around and do everyday tasks without help. Additionally, seniors living alone may be more susceptible to falls or other accidents since they don’t have anyone to help them if something happens. And finally, living alone can often be lonely and isolating, negatively affecting a person’s health and well-being.
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Fortunately, you can prepare for living alone as a senior by taking proactive steps. Here are a few things you should do to get ready.
Prepare Your Finances
When you know your senior years will be isolating, you must ensure your finances are in order. This means having enough saved up for retirement and making smart investment choices.
Since you will likely be on a fixed income once you retire, it is essential to have money saved up to cover your basic costs of living. You’ll also want to invest in assets that will provide you with a steady income stream, such as dividend-paying stocks or annuities.
A retirement investment will be critical. You might not have the physical and mental capacity to continue working, so you need to have enough saved to cover your costs. Sometimes, living alone as a senior also have to pay for long-term care insurance.
Medications might also be an issue, especially if you have many. These costs can add up, and it’s essential to plan. There are many ways to get help with the cost of medications, such as prescription assistance programs or government health insurance programs like Medicare.
You should also have your legal documents in order, such as a will or power of attorney. This way, you can assign a family member or relative to make financial and medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
Update Your Home
If you’re going to be living alone as a senior, it’s essential to ensure your home is safe and comfortable. This might mean making some changes to the layout of your home or getting rid of clutter that could cause falls.
You might also need to install some safety features, such as handrails in the shower or grab bars by the toilet. These can help prevent falls and make your home more comfortable.
Some seniors living alone as a senior also choose to downsize to a smaller home or an assisted living facility. This can be an excellent way to reduce your maintenance costs and get help with activities of daily living, such as cooking and cleaning.
Make Social Connections
One of the biggest dangers of living alone as a senior is an isolation and loneliness. This can lead to mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and dementia. So, it’s essential to make sure you have social connections.
There are many ways to do this, even if you can’t get out much.
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You can stay in touch with friends and family through phone calls, letters, emails, and social media. Additionally, many organizations offer programs for seniors, such as Meals on Wheels or the Senior Companions Program. These can help you stay connected to your community and make new friends.
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You can also join senior groups or clubs that meet regularly. This can give you something to look forward to and provide a sense of belonging. There are groups for every interest, so you’re sure to find one that’s right for you.
Finally, volunteering is another great way to socialize and feel good about yourself. Giving back to your community can help you connect with others while making a difference.
Consider In-Home Care
If you’re worried about living alone as a senior, you might want to consider in-home care. This type of care can provide you with the assistance you need to age in place safely and comfortably.
In-home care can include help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and cooking. It can also include homemaking services, such as light housekeeping and grocery shopping. Additionally, many in-home care providers offer transportation services to help seniors get around town.
Of course, in-home care is not suitable for everyone. It can be expensive and not always available in all areas. But if you’re worried about living alone as a senior, it’s worth considering.
Final Thoughts
Living alone as a senior can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. With some planning and preparation, you can ensure you’re safe and comfortable. Additionally, many resources and services are available to help seniors live alone. So, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
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