Aging alone is one of the quiet fears that few people talk about, but that a lot of divorcing people harbor – especially those going through a grey divorce. In this podcast episode, Dr. Gerda Maissel, a physician and medical navigator with C-suite healthcare leadership experience, breaks down what solo aging means in a healthcare system that often overlooks or overwhelms patients —especially older women. 

From navigating complex diagnoses to making life-or-death decisions, Dr. Maissel explains how healthcare isn’t just about treatment—it’s about advocacy. She dives into why traditional support systems are vanishing, how solo agers are disproportionately affected, and why creating intentional community—what she calls “circles”— is as vital to health as any prescription. She also pulls back the curtain on hospital economics and shares why understanding a hospital’s financial incentives can change how you approach your own care.

If you or someone you love is worried about how to navigate aging alone, this episode will provide you with tips, techniques, and the insight you need to make that journey with confidence and grace.

About Dr. Gerda Maissel

Physician patient advocate & medical navigator Dr. Gerda Maissel provides advice to improve medical outcomes and optimizes doctor communication. Dr. Maissel understands both the clinical and business sides of medicine. She works with clients in the hospital or at home to ensure the best outcomes.

Connect with Dr. Gerda Maissel

You can connect with Dr. Gerda Maissell on LinkedIn at Gerda Maissel and find her website at My MD Advisor.  For tips, stories and commentary on American healthcare subscribe to The Foglight by Dr. Gerda Maissel.

Karen Covy is a Divorce Coach and Consultant, Lawyer, Author, and Speaker who is dedicated to helping people make the best decisions possible for themselves, their families, and their future - especially in stressful times. You can check out Karen's videos on YouTube.

You can connect with Karen on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and on her own website at karencovy.com.