Growing older doesn’t mean fading into the background — far from it. On 60 Plus Uncensored, I speak with people over 60 (and those close to it) who are still building, creating, and living with purpose. In this episode, I sat down with Kelly O’Conor, Certified Senior Advisor, nationally recognized voice on solo aging, and someone who speaks about later-life relationships and independence with refreshing honesty and humor.
We explored what it really takes to thrive without the traditional safety nets of marriage or children, why legal and practical planning is essential, and how dating in later life can be surprisingly adventurous. Whether you’re divorced, widowed, never partnered, or just fiercely independent, Kelly’s wisdom is worth leaning into.
What Is Solo Aging?
Solo aging isn’t one-size-fits-all. For Kelly, it means aging without a partner or children — but it can also apply to people whose children live far away or have lives too complex to step into a caregiving role.
One striking fact Kelly shared: 29% of U.S. households are single-person households. This is far more common than most people realize — yet it requires a very different approach to planning for the future.
The Top 3 Essentials Every Solo Ager Should Have in Place
According to Kelly, three things rise to the top:
- Durable Power of Attorney – Someone who can make decisions for you if you’re unable. This isn’t just for older adults; everyone over 18 should have one.
- Care Manager – A designated person (often a professional) to coordinate your care, attend medical appointments, and oversee your well-being.
- Financial or Business Manager – Someone to ensure bills are paid, insurance is current, and finances are managed if you can’t do it yourself.
Kelly herself already has relationships in place with a professional care management firm, plus friends she trusts for legal authority — a blend of personal connection and professional support.
Building Your “Chosen Family”
For solo agers, friendships aren’t just social — they’re a form of future security. Kelly’s chosen support network includes a former coworker and a younger couple she met at the dog park, who’ve become like family.
She stresses building these relationships early, not waiting until a crisis forces the issue. Connections can come from anywhere — coffee shops, volunteer work, pet communities — but they require nurturing over time.
Socializing and Staying Connected
Loneliness is a risk at any age, but particularly for those living alone. Kelly recommends:
- Senior Centers – Many are now vibrant, activity-rich hubs, far from the “bingo-only” stereotype.
- Meetup Groups – From literary clubs to dinner parties, Meetup.com can connect you to like-minded locals.
- Outdoor & Travel Groups – Organizations like Events and Adventures and solo travel clubs offer companionship and adventure.
Dating in Later Life
Dating after 60 comes with its own set of surprises. The biggest shift? Health and caregiving considerations now factor into relationship decisions. But Kelly sees plenty of upside — less societal pressure, more freedom to define what you want, and the ability to be direct about compatibility.
Popular dating apps:
- Bumble – where women make the first move
- Match.com – still one of the largest platforms
- Age- or faith-specific sites for tailored matches
Kelly encourages embracing online dating — safely — and supplementing it with in-person social events.
Everyone Needs a Little Help Sometimes
There’s so much to know when it comes to lifestyle choices for Older Adults, it’s hard to know even where to begin. One way is to simply click on the button below and let one of our coaches give some guidance – at no cost to you.
Get Help NowThe Case for Cohabitation Agreements
If you move in with a partner later in life, Kelly strongly advises having a cohabitation agreement — a legal plan outlining what happens if the relationship ends. Without it, one partner could face housing instability or financial loss.
These agreements can cover:
- Who moves out if you split
- Temporary housing arrangements
- Financial responsibilities during and after the relationship
If a partner refuses to sign one? Kelly’s advice is clear: don’t move in.
Financial Discipline Is Key
One of the biggest mistakes solo agers make is overspending in early retirement. Kelly urges keeping resources in reserve for future professional care and unexpected health needs — especially since many people now live well into their 90s or beyond.
The Freedom of Living Alone
For Kelly, the biggest perk of solo living is simple:
“Being able to do whatever I want, whenever I want — without having to consider anyone else’s quirks or schedule.”
She’s also quick to point out that being single later in life is often a conscious choice — not a sign that “no one wanted you.”
One Legal Document Everyone Over 50 Needs
If you do nothing else, Kelly insists on having a durable power of attorney with at least three named agents (and backups). Pair it with an advance healthcare directive and a complete estate plan to prepare not just for end-of-life, but also for potential incapacity.
Recommended Resources
- Book: Essential Retirement Planning for Solo Agers by Sara Zeff Geber, PhD
- TV Show: Later Daters (Netflix) – a fun, heartwarming look at dating in later life
- Podcasts: Seek out those focused on aging, independence, and positive late-life transitions
Looking Ahead
Kelly is currently writing a book on midlife, set for publication in 2026, and continues her work as Senior Care Kelly across social media and her website seniorcarekelly.com.
Her message to solo agers is clear: start planning early, stay socially connected, and never underestimate your ability to create a joyful, secure, and independent future.
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