For solo agers — those who are single, childless, and without nearby family — planning for the future requires thoughtful preparation. Without a built-in network of close relatives to lean on, having a comprehensive estate plan becomes vital to ensure your wishes are honored. A will is essential for solo agers. A will is often the cornerstone of any estate plan. Without a will, state laws determine how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your wishes. For solo agers, this document allows you to: SOLO AGING SOLUTIONS How to Protect Your Legacy and Plan for the Future
Plan for incapacity with guardianships.
Creating a will removes uncertainty and ensures your legacy reflects your choices, not decisions left to the courts. Understand the benefits of a trust. While a will is important, a trust offers additional flexibility and control that can be especially valuable for solo agers. A revocable living trust allows you to control your assets during your lifetime while providing clear instructions for their distribution after your passing.
A major concern for solo agers is who will make decisions if they become incapacitated. Without a plan, the courts may appoint someone who doesn’t know your values or wishes. Guardianship planning ensures trusted individuals or professionals are in place to act on your behalf.
A health care proxy appoints someone to make medical decisions for you. A durable power of attorney grants someone the authority to manage your finances if you cannot.
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Key benefits of a trust include:
• Avoiding probate: This keeps your estate out of costly and time-consuming court processes. •
These documents act as your voice, ensuring your best interests are represented. Build your support network. At Merlino & Gonzales, we specialize in helping solo agers create estate plans tailored to their unique needs. By planning today, you gain peace of mind for tomorrow. Contact us today at 718-698-2200 to start building a plan that reflects your values and secures your legacy.
Privacy: Unlike wills, trusts are not public, keeping your financial matters confidential. Detailed instructions: You can outline how assets are distributed over time or tailored for beneficiaries with specific needs.
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Determine how your assets will be distributed. Name an executor to oversee your estate. Appoint a guardian for dependents or pets.
For solo agers, a trust ensures your assets are handled precisely as you intend while minimizing complications for those involved.
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Banana Pudding Cheesecake Michele’s Recipe Corner
INSPIRED BY DELISH.COM
INGREDIENTS • 1 (8-oz) block cream cheese, softened • 1/3 cup granulated sugar • 1 cup heavy cream • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 (3.4-oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix • 1 cup whole milk • 1 prepared graham cracker crust • 3 bananas, sliced • 20 Nilla Wafers, plus more for garnish • Whipped topping, for garnish
DIRECTIONS 1.
In a large bowl of a standing mixer, add softened cream cheese and beat until fluffy and free of clumps. 2. Add sugar and beat until combined, then add heavy cream and vanilla extract and beat until medium-stiff peaks form. Set aside. 3. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk and pudding mix and refrigerate for 3 minutes until thickened. Pour pudding mixture into cream cheese mixture and fold until combined. 4. Into the graham cracker crust, pour half the
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filling and spread evenly. Add a single layer of sliced bananas and Nilla Wafers, then pour remaining filling over and smooth the top. Refrigerate until firm, at least 6 hours, or overnight. Top slices with whipped cream, crushed Nilla Wafers, and any additional banana slices as desired.
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