What Is a Solo Ager?
A “solo ager” is someone growing older without:
A spouse or long-term partner
Adult children nearby
Immediate family support
A reliable caregiving backup plan
According to research from the AARP, a growing share of Americans over 50 live alone — and that percentage increases with age. Living alone isn’t the problem.
The challenge comes when:
Health declines
Housing costs rise
Income is fixed
Help becomes necessary
Without shared expenses or shared caregiving, solo agers often carry the full financial weight alone.
The Senior Living Affordability Reality
Let’s talk numbers — calmly and clearly. According to Genworth (Cost of Care Survey):
Assisted living can average $4,000–$5,000+ per month
In-home care can cost $25–$30 per hour
Nursing home care can exceed $90,000 per year
Costs vary by state, but one truth remains: Senior housing and care are expensive — and often rise faster than inflation.
The U.S. Census Bureau reports that millions of Americans over 65 rely primarily on Social Security. The average monthly Social Security retirement benefit in recent years has been under $2,000.
That gap between income and potential care costs is what makes affordability planning so important.
Why Solo Agers Face Higher Financial Pressure
When you age with a partner:
Expenses are shared
Housing costs are split
Care decisions are discussed together
There’s built-in emergency support
Common pressure points include:
Housing Stability
Can you remain safely in your home long-term? If not, what are alternatives?
Health Support
Who checks in if you fall sick? Can you afford in-home assistance if needed?
Emergency Planning
Who has power of attorney? Who manages decisions if you can’t?
Emotional & Social Support
Isolation increases health risks. According to the National Institute on Aging, loneliness can significantly impact physical and cognitive health.
Housing Options Solo Agers Should Understand
You don’t need to move tomorrow. But understanding options now gives you control.
Aging in Place
Stay in your current home
Modify for safety (grab bars, ramps, lighting)
Budget for future maintenance
Downsizing
Smaller home = lower utilities and taxes
Frees up equity
Reduces maintenance stress
55+ Communities
Built-in social structure
Predictable costs
Often lower maintenance
Shared Housing
Renting a room
Co-housing communities
Companion living arrangements
Assisted Living or Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)
Higher upfront costs
Predictable care structure
Long-term stability
The key is comparing costs before urgency forces a rushed decision.
How Solo Agers Can Strengthen Affordability
Here are practical, realistic steps:
Know Your Fixed Income
List Social Security, pensions, annuities, and part-time income.
Estimate Future Housing Costs
Research assisted living and home care rates in your area.
Build a “Care Buffer”
Even modest savings earmarked for future help can reduce stress.
Review Long-Term Care Insurance Options
Not right for everyone — but worth understanding early.
Create Legal Documents
Durable power of attorney
Healthcare directive
Trusted contact
Strengthen Social Networks
Friends, neighbors, faith groups, volunteer circles.
Financial security is stronger when social support exists.
The Emotional Side of Solo Aging
Affordability isn’t just math. It’s confidence.
Many solo agers fear:
Running out of money
Becoming a burden
Losing independence
Planning early changes that narrative from fear to preparedness.
Get the Affordability Guide in our Next Edition
To make this easier, we’ve created a practical resource:
The Solo Ager Senior Living Affordability Guide
Inside, you’ll find:
A cost comparison worksheet
Housing option breakdowns
Care cost planning templates
Questions to ask before choosing a community
A future-care savings planner
Legal document checklist
If you’re aging independently, this guide can help you make decisions calmly — not reactively.
Get the Affordability Guide and start planning while options are still wide open
With care,
Mike Bridges
Founder, The O55 Report