For planning ahead while you're capable

Preparing for Solo Aging, While You Still Have the Energy

The best time to plan for solo aging is exactly now — while you're healthy, clear-headed, and not in crisis. This guide gives you a sensible order of operations.

Think of this as a checklist you revisit yearly, not a one-time project you have to finish this month.
1
Foundation document

Set up power of attorney

The single highest-leverage document for a solo ager, especially when there's no obvious family member to name.

Read: Power of attorney when there's no obvious person to ask →
2
Money basics

Get your financial plan in writing

Solo aging finances have a few extra wrinkles — long-term care costs chief among them — worth planning for early.

Read: Solo aging financial planning basics →
3
Where you'll live

Think honestly about your home and location

Home safety and location matter more for solo agers, since there's no built-in second set of eyes.

Read: Solo aging and home safety: what to plan now →
4
Know your future options

Understand senior living before you need it

Deciding calmly, in advance, beats deciding under pressure during a health crisis.

Read: When to consider senior living as a solo ager →
5
Bring it together

Document everything in the Care Team Builder

One organized place for your documents, contacts, and wishes — so nothing depends on your memory alone.

Open the Care Team Builder →