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Aging Solo? Do These Things to Make Your Retirement Years Go Smoothly

A smiling senior woman

Pew Research found 27% of adults 60 and older lived alone, and women were 50% more likely to live alone then men. The U.S. Census Bureau also found 19.6% of Americans between 55 and 64 reported being childless, along with 15.9% of those 65- 74 and 10.9% of those over 75. That’s why for thousands of solo agers — defined as those without children or a spouse — planning for their future takes on the utmost importance. Today, solo agers who are looking for ways to enjoy life now and ensure they have a smart plan for the future, are considering the social, financial and health benefits of independent living communities like Freedom Plaza.

Now’s the Best Time to Plan for Your Future

It’s always good to have a plan, and the best time to have one is before you need it. Even if you think it will change, you’ll have some outline of what you want to do. Here are some things to consider as you look to the future.

Maintain your schedule.

Having a sense of purpose is important to your overall happiness. While letting go of the responsibilities of a career can be a relief, not having a regular schedule can be a difficult adjustment at first. When you retire having a place to go every day — local coffee shop, fitness class, public library — can give you something to look forward to, and it’s a way to stay engaged with the world around you.

Appoint a power of attorney.

If you suddenly have a medical crisis or memory loss, naming a medical or financial power of attorney ensures you have someone who can act in your best interest and make important decisions.

Consider long-term care insurance.

Long-term care insurance (LTCI) can be an important part of solo aging because it can help cover the costs of some types of health care not covered by Medicare. Like life insurance, the younger you are when you purchase LTCI, the less it costs. Consult your financial planner to determine whether LTCI is right for you.

Build up your social connections.

If you’re aging solo, consider developing a social network. A strong community of friends can help support you and make it easier to develop a new hobby or interest and stay active.

Right size your house.

How much of your current residence do you use, and how much time do you spend on upkeep and maintenance? Now may be a good time to move to a smaller home that’s one level. Or if you want to stay where you are, you should look into what it would cost to fit your lifestyle today and needs for the future.

Why Older Adults Like You are Choosing Independent Living

Maintenance-free living: Passing off your household chores and tasks you’d prefer not to do anymore is just one of the many benefits of senior living for solo agers. In independent living communities, a talented team is available to take care of all chores, maintenance, hassles and more.

Delicious dining: From grocery shopping and prep work to cooking and cleaning, moving to an independent living community will simplify dining. If you’re not feeling like cooking for yourself, their talented culinary team can create delicious, healthy meals for you.

Engagement and opportunity: Moving to a Life Plan Community provides you with endless opportunities to meet new people, make new friends and learn something new.

Higher levels of care available on-site: 70% of older adults over 65 will need some form of long-term care. Knowing how much it will cost and who will provide it can make financial planning easier, providing true peace of mind. As a Life Care Community, Freedom Plaza is ideal for solo aging with higher levels of care — including assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation — offered at predictable monthly rates. Plus, our health center has a 5-star CMS rating.

There’s More to Enjoy at Freedom Plaza

Our maintenance-free community features a variety of helpful services and thoughtful amenities that give you more freedom to enjoy life.

Services

  • Housekeeping and flat linen services
  • Lawn care and grounds maintenance
  • Restaurant-style, chef-prepared dining
  • Group fitness, including yoga and water fitness
  • Lifelong learning, including arts and crafts
  • Transportation to Greater Sun City Center area
  • Personal concierge services
  • 24/7 security
  • In-home emergency response system
  • Pet-friendly senior living

Amenities

  • 140 acres of landscaped grounds with walking paths and a private lake
  • Heated outdoor pool with hot tub
  • Freedom Fairways Golf and Tennis Club
  • 18-hole executive golf course and putting green
  • Pickleball and tennis courts
  • Courtyard and gardens
  • Resident flower and vegetable gardens
  • Fully equipped community kitchen
  • Fully equipped fitness center
  • Heated indoor pool with hot tub
  • Arts and crafts room
  • Billiards and game room
  • Full-service salon and spa
  • Library
  • Woodworking shop
  • Auditorium with dance floor
  • Wellness center
  • Business center with computers
  • General store and postal services

Freedom to Live Life Your Way

Discover the difference being part of an engaging and friendly Life Plan Community like Freedom Plaza can make in your life today and tomorrow. To learn more, call us at 813-280-5009, contact us here or use our Community Assistant chat feature.