What you do you need to consider? I have been a widow for almost two years and I realize I have no one to count on for my retirement success but me.The facts show that women live longer and the number of years women are married due to being single, divorced or marrying later is decreasing. So statistics show women will be alone longer and live longer then men. You need a good health plan and budget. It is also wise to have a great support system of friends. I have a coffee group and we meet every week and support each other through illnesses,retirements and grandchildren.