Solo agers—those without a spouse, partner, or adult children—face a different set of questions when it comes to growing older. Who will make decisions if you can’t? Where will you turn for care? The good news is that in Massachusetts, you don’t have to do it all alone. There are smart programs, supportive professionals, and legal tools that can help you age with confidence and control.
At Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, we work with many solo agers who want to stay independent while being prepared for whatever comes next. If you’re thinking about your future, we can help.
PACE and MassHealth Programs for Long-Term Support
One of the most supportive elder care options available in Massachusetts is PACE—the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. Designed for people aged 55 and older who meet nursing home care criteria but want to live at home, PACE offers a full range of services under one umbrella.
Funded by MassHealth and Medicare, PACE includes:
- Primary and specialist medical care
- In-home support
- Day programs and social services
- Prescription drugs and transportation
- Physical therapy, meals, and case management
All care is coordinated through one provider, making it easier to manage. You must live in a PACE service area to enroll, and eligibility depends on both your health needs and financial qualifications. PACE can be a strong option for solo agers who want to avoid institutional care and still receive comprehensive support.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities, Assisted Living, and Aging in Place
For those looking for stability over time, Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) offer a blend of housing and care services. You start in independent living and, as your needs change, you can move to assisted living or skilled nursing without leaving the community. This type of setup provides consistency, routine, and built-in social support.
Another option to consider is a standalone assisted living facility. These communities provide housing, daily meals, housekeeping, and help with personal care, such as bathing and medication reminders. While not medical facilities, many offer memory care and health monitoring services. Massachusetts has a wide selection of licensed assisted living residences that vary in size, setting, and cost. It’s a good idea to tour a few and review what’s included in the monthly fees.
If you prefer to stay in your own home, aging in place remains a strong possibility. Massachusetts supports aging in place through:
- Local Councils on Aging
- The State Home Care Program
- Private home care providers
- Grants or services for home modifications
All of these options allow solo agers to remain independent while accessing the right level of support as their needs change.
Legal Tools to Stay in Control
If you don’t have immediate family nearby—or at all—legal planning becomes even more important. These documents let you choose the people and systems that will support you later in life.
We’ll help you set up:
- A Durable Power of Attorney to handle finances if you’re unable
- A Health Care Proxy to appoint someone to make medical choices
- An Advance Directive (Living Will) to express your wishes for medical care if you’re unable to communicate
- A HIPAA release so your care team can access medical records
- A Will or Trust to direct how your assets should be handled
Choosing who will act on your behalf can feel overwhelming. If you don’t have someone close to name, we can discuss professional fiduciaries, care managers, or other trusted individuals.
The Role of Geriatric Care Managers and Elder Law Attorneys
Solo agers often benefit from working with geriatric care managers, also known as Aging Life Care Professionals. These professionals can help:
- Assess your living situation and care needs
- Coordinate appointments and services
- Serve as a liaison between you and your providers
- Act as your advocate when family can’t
We frequently team up with care managers to create a complete plan that covers legal, personal, and medical decisions. As your attorneys, we’ll focus on protecting your rights and making sure your wishes are clearly written down and respected.
How We Can Help You Move Forward
Getting older doesn’t mean giving up control. In fact, solo agers who plan ahead often enjoy more freedom and peace of mind. Whether you’re still working, recently retired, or managing a chronic condition, there’s no better time to prepare for your future.
At Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, P.C., we help you understand your options and create a plan that fits your life. You don’t need a big family to feel supported—you just need the right tools and the right people in your corner. Contact us today and let’s talk about how we can help you stay in charge of your future.