While many solo agers express negative associations with their "solo-ness", others identify positive and empowering aspects. Solo agers describe feeling lonely and isolated with no or limited options for getting help with both daily tasks or with tasks that occasionally require an extra hand, such as in a post-surgical situation.  

Solo agers express a range of concerns stemming from having to rely solely on themselves for comfort, finances, and care. Many fear needing additional help if their health were to decline, and describe this uncertainty as a major source of worry. Solos also worry about their pets' future, knowing that their animals rely solely on them.

Solo agers identified important benefits to aging alone, ranging from freedom from obligations to feeling empowered by self-reliance and clever strategies for doing tasks alone. Many solos - though not all - have embraced their solo-ness, leveraging its strengths, and working on getting their needs met.

Like most other older adults, solo agers want to build and maintain social networks that feel supportive. Friends and neighbors were often mentioned as the primary source of social engagement and some solo agers do have family members near or far who visit and/or help out periodically. Cultivating friendships with other solo agers and with younger people was frequently mentioned as important.

Most solo agers rely on some form of technology for socialization, staying safe, and managing daily life on their own. Access to the internet is key for solos, particularly those living in rural areas where transportation in a challenge.

Solo agers are planning for their future needs, particularly their future health care or person care needs. Most have created advance directives and health care powers of attorney designating a surrogate decision maker, though some are still challenged to find someone they trust.