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Five Star Wealth Manager Award Winners
NewsSeptember 03, 2024
Looking for a fiduciary financial advisor and wealth manager? How do you know if your financial advisor has your best interests at heart? We understand it’s a big decision to partner with a financial advisor. Here’s why you should work with the award-winning financial planning team at Agemy Financial Strategies.
Celebrating over 30 years, Agemy Financial Strategies is dedicated to educating retirees through retirement planning, legacy planning, wealth management, and more to help them achieve their personal and financial goals.
There are a hundred reasons to work with Agemy Financial Strategies, but winning the Five Star Wealth Manager award for 12 consecutive years is at least twelve of them. By continuously earning this honor, Daniel Agemy, CPM®, RFC®, and Andrew A. Agemy, MRFC®, have shown an outstanding commitment to their clients. They have repeatedly appeared in Connecticut and FORTUNE Magazines (with more to come in 2025—stay tuned!).
About Five Star Professional
Five Star Professional uses their own research methodology to name outstanding professionals and works with highly-esteemed publications to get the word out. Their research disclosures include the five following criteria in order to qualify for the award
Each of their award winners has shown a commitment to clients, strong industry credentials and has been evaluated on the quality of his or her practice. Daniel Agemy, CPM®, RFC® and Andrew A. Agemy, MRFC® have met these criteria and have been honored with the Five Star Wealth Manager awards.
Meet Andrew Agemy
Andrew has won the prestigious Five Star Professional Award in the category of Wealth Management for the last 12 years straight—as seen in Connecticut Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Fortune, and many others. Additionally, he is in his second decade of receiving an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau as well as the National Ethics Association.
In order to serve his clients in the most effective way possible, Andrew is dedicated to continually advancing his knowledge of the financial markets and keeping up with emerging trends, so he can communicate his knowledge to pre-retirees and retirees in a manner they can easily understand. He received the CLTC designation in 2003 and then subsequently became an MRFC.
Andrew’s belief is that a financially literate and educated retiree is a happy and stress-free retiree. That’s why, throughout his career, he’s remained committed to educating his clients and members of his community via in-person financial education workshops and online webinars.
Meet Daniel Agemy
As a second-generation wealth manager, Daniel J. Agemy, CPM®, RFC®, has followed in his father’s footsteps, bringing a lifetime of financial expertise to Agemy Financial Strategies. As a boy, he helped his dad, Andrew Agemy, in the office. As he got older, he realized he had a special knack for communicating complex financial concepts and a passion for education. He eventually earned his way into partnership at Agemy Financial Strategies, and in 2015 he co-founded Agemy Wealth Advisors, LLC, a discretionary investment advisory firm.
In 2018, Daniel received the highly esteemed CPM® designation (Certified Portfolio Manager) from Columbia University IEOR and has won the prestigious Five Star Wealth Manager award three years in a row.
Daniel believes the world is getting increasingly more complex and the way to stay ahead is by continuously educating himself, his team, and clients. Daniel has over twelve years’ experience explaining and managing custom-designed retirement plans built to generate dependable income helping retirees achieve their dream retirement and lifestyle.
About Agemy Financial Strategies
Agemy Financial Strategies has helped their clients plan and prepare. This way, when the unforeseen occurs, their clients are uniquely positioned for success. We work hard to deliver a dependable retirement income strategy, in any market, so that clients can enjoy the “best” of their lives during retirement.
We provide our clients with a wide array of financial services. Retirement planning services are designed to educate our clients as to their best options for meeting their current financial needs, achieving their long-term financial goals, avoiding common retirement-planning mistakes, and enjoying a lifetime of financial stability.
Our goal is to give clients confidence in a custom-developed, robust retirement portfolio and provide investment options designed to generate interest and dividends regardless of market conditions. This is income that can be spent or reinvested for dependable “organic” portfolio growth.
Are your most important decisions being made with the advice and guidance of a Five Star Professional?
Work With the Best
There are so many reasons why you should come and work with Agemy. Not only do we have Five Star Wealth Manager advisors, but with Agemy Financial Strategies, we give you the peace of mind that we are here for you every step of the way on your journey to financial freedom and security.
Our financial advisory team at Agemy Financial Strategies have three main goals for their firm. First, they want to educate retirees to make smart financial decisions. Second, they want to help retirees implement legacy and generational wealth transfers. Third, they want to help retirees have enough income in retirement to live stress-free in the “best” of their lives.
Come work with the award-winning financial planning team at agemy.com today.
Financial Tips for National Preparedness Month
NewsHappy September and National Preparedness Month – a great reminder of the importance of preparing for unexpected events. Whether you face financial challenges from a global pandemic or a volatile economy, it’s essential to have a plan in place. Here’s what you need to know.
This year, millions of households are coping with serious financial challenges related to the economic impact of the pandemic, while the threat of natural disasters is ever-present.
While the Covid-19 pandemic has increased Americans’ awareness of the need to have a will, living trust or other similar end-of-life document prepared, only about 33% of Americans have put these plans in place. That means that 67% are leaving what happens to them and their assets in case of disability or death up to others, including the state.
Even more worrying, over half (53%) of Americans report not having emergency savings should a disaster strike.
The Importance of an Emergency Fund
An Emergency Fund acts as a safety net, helping to provide the financial resources you need to navigate unforeseen circumstances – without jeopardizing your long-term financial goals or your hard-earned nest egg.
Whether it’s an unexpected evacuation due to a natural disaster or unexpected medical expenses, having funds set aside can alleviate stress and protect your assets, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your safety and well-being.
How to Invest Your Emergency Fund for Liquidity
Having money saved for emergencies is a great first step. But if you want this emergency money to grow by investing it, it’s important to know you can still get to it quickly when you need it.
A liquid asset is something you own that can be quickly and easily turned into cash without losing much value. This means you can get your money fast when you need it. Examples include money in a regular savings account, money market accounts, and stocks that can be sold quickly.
Due to its volatility, avoiding investing your emergency fund in stocks is wise. This is because if you need to sell your stocks to use the money for an emergency expense, you may be forced to sell at a loss. Bonds are generally less volatile than stocks but may take time to sell.
If you want to try to earn returns, which can help prevent losses due to inflation, you can consider other investment choices like a money market account, high-yield savings account, or CD. For more guidance on investing your funds according to your personal situation and goals, speaking with an experienced financial advisor can help take the guesswork out of your investment journey.
Create Your Financial First Aid Kit
The Emergency Financial First Aid Kit is a crucial tool to help you make financial preparations. It offers guidance on minimizing the financial repercussions of disasters for you and your family.
Besides growing your cash through liquid assets, there are day-to-day steps you can make to help strengthen your feeling of being financially prepared:
Establish a Clear Estate Plan
Financial preparedness extends beyond emergencies. Estate planning can help safeguard your wishes and assets.
Having a robust plan takes center stage when it comes to preparedness. An estate plan can be a lifesaver in a time of crisis. It outlines your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets and leaves instructions for situations when you become incapacitated. Your estate plan should contain a power of attorney, granting a trusted individual the authority to decide on your behalf if you cannot.
This document also empowers you to manage your finances, pay bills, and ensure the seamless continuation of essential affairs. Additionally, a healthcare proxy or medical power of attorney is equally important. This person is authorized to make medical decisions if you’re incapacitated. By appointing this person, you allow yourself to safeguard your well-being according to your wishes.
When harmoniously integrated into your broader financial strategy, these components of your estate plan can provide an extra layer of financial preparedness. By outlining your preferences and empowering trusted individuals to act on your behalf, you can help ensure that your affairs align with your wishes, even in challenging circumstances.
Regularly Review Your Plan
Creating a comprehensive preparedness plan is not a one-time task but an ongoing responsibility requiring regular attention and adjustments. As circumstances in life evolve, so should your strategy.
Life often throws you unexpected curveballs; as such, it’s essential to adjust when these changes happen. Shifts in family dynamics, such as a divorce or a death, can impact your financial standing. When these events occur, adjustments should be made to your estate and retirement plans.
Annual reviews provide an opportunity to evaluate your progress, reassess your financial situation, and make any necessary adjustments to your plan. Partnering with an experienced and trusted financial advisor can help enhance the efficacy of your emergency preparedness efforts.
Work With Agemy Financial Strategies
At Agemy Financial Strategies, our trusted advisors can help you prepare for all stages of life, even in unexpected emergencies. Our team of Fiduciaries is here to assist you every step of the way, helping to make your retirement years filled with joy and fulfillment.
We hope you feel financially inspired this National Preparedness Month. As always, contact us with any questions regarding your retirement outlook and financial future. We look forward to helping you prepare for whatever life may bring.
Schedule your complimentary strategy session here.
Investing for Retirees 101
NewsAugust 24, 2022
Saving for retirement is a top financial priority for most Americans. But once you hang up your hat, you shouldn’t necessarily stop thinking about saving and investing. Here’s the ins-and-outs of investing for retirees in a a volatile climate.
There is no doubt that we are in a bear market. When this happens, we naturally look for all the causes. Each bear market or recession has its own cause and effect.
As the stock market swings wildly, investors will be looking for less risky investments to mitigate the impact on their portfolios. Some investors will be tempted by volatility, seeing it as an opportunity. But others will want to avoid risk, especially given the uncertainty of exactly how much the Fed will raise interest rates and the impact that will have on the economy.
Here are some investments for retirees that might provide shelter from volatile stock markets.
High-Yield Savings Accounts
High-yield savings accounts also known as CDs are low risk investment vehicles. They are FDIC insured so you have no risk of losing your investment principle. With these accounts, you are not locking your money up for a specified amount of time, but for that additional flexibility, you tend to get a lower interest rate.
You can open a high-yield savings account at any bank or credit union. There’s no minimum balance requirement and the process is typically quick and easy. Depending on your time horizon, adding CDs to your retirement strategy can help offset losses from other investment vehicles. They can also provide a home for excess retirement distributions made from other accounts, such as an IRA or 401(k).
Individual Bonds vs. Using Bond Mutual Funds
Investing your money in bond mutual funds is a popular method with investors. What many people don’t realize is that bond mutual funds carry risks, costs, and tax implications that can be reduced, or even eliminated, by investing in a diversified portfolio of individual bonds, or other fixed-income securities.
That’s because when an investor buys an individual bond, they have two important securities. First, they’re promised a fixed rate of interest for the life of the bond. Secondly, when the bond matures, they’re expected to get their principal back – assuming there have been no defaults. With that assumption, an investor knows exactly what they’re going to earn on the bond that they hold to maturity, they know at what date it will mature, and they know the name of the company they are invested in.
Most investors understand the inverse relationship between interest rates and bond values. When interest rates go down, bond values tend to go up, and when interest rates go up, bond values tend to go down. If something happens in the bond market to cause bond values to drop, a portfolio of individual bonds as well as bond mutual funds will both be affected. However, if you’re holding individual bonds, the loss is simply a “paper loss” because you’re going to still receive your fixed interest payment for the life of the bond, and when the bond matures, you’re still going to get your principal back assuming there have been no defaults.
Investing in income-generating securities is similar to lending your money to the largest U.S. companies that pay you regularly scheduled interest. In the case of bonds, at the end of the loan term, they send you the last interest payment along with the return of your original principal.By owning predominantly income-generating securities, prudent investors can know, with a greater degree of certainty, what their financial future holds. Other investment vehicles such as common stocks and mutual funds don’t offer much certainty at all.
U.S. Treasury Bonds
If you’re looking for a lower risk investment, U.S. Treasuries are an excellent choice. Because the U.S. government has never defaulted on its bonds, U.S. Treasuries are one of the more dependable investments available.
With TIPS (Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities), you can get government bonds that have their face value and the interest they pay adjusted for inflation. Because TIPS trades on the open market, their price adjusts to inflation expectations, so you can be sure that your money will be worth more in the future than it is today even if inflation rises over time!
Bonds including, T-bonds, can be a good investment for those who are seeking a steady rate of interest payments. Although bonds and Treasury bonds are popular, they have some disadvantages and risks associated with them and may not be ideal for every investor. So always discuss this option with your trusted Fiduciary advisor before making any investment moves.
Investing in Gold
Gold is seen as the ultimate in safe havens. And it does provide some protection from inflation – just not every year. Timing can make a big difference. At times it can be as volatile as the stock market, but over the long term, it does tend to keep its value. It is a monetary asset, so its best use might be to diversify away from dollar-based investments. It’s important to invest with caution when it comes to gold.
If you’re interested in investing in gold, it is typically more secure to invest in a gold ETF like SPDR Gold Shares (GLD). This is a way to invest in gold without buying actual physical gold bars or coins. If you want exposure to gold and don’t want to deal with storing physical gold yourself, this could be a good option for you.
Investing in Preferred Stocks
Preferred stocks are hybrid investments that have some features in common with both stocks and bonds. You get the ownership stake of stocks, and the potential for appreciation, combined with guaranteed dividend payments similar to the interest payment on bonds. Generally, they’re considered more stable than common stocks, but not quite as steady as bonds.
However, that appreciation potential cuts both ways. You will often see larger swings in market pricing of preferred shares compared to bonds. So why are they dependable investments for retirees? Because preferred stock dividends are a good choice in nearly all cases, meaning you’ll get income no matter what the stock is doing. This also makes them a very good fit for our Income Method, as we look for reliable income streams from our holdings.
CEFs offer diversification as additional protection even in the already relatively less risky preferred securities space. Preferred shares issued by CEFs have both the benefits of the diversification of the CEFs holdings, and those same benefits of being a hybrid investment with stock-like price movements and a bond-like dividend stream.
At the end of the day preferred stocks can be a welcome addition to a portfolio looking for a yield boost.
Investing With Agemy Financial Strategies
Investing should be easy – just buy low and sell high – but most of us have trouble following that simple goals. Understanding these principles and strategies can help you avoid some of the pitfalls that snare some investors.
In the past, market volatility has been an opportunity to pick up more income-producing assets at a good price. But now we are entering a period where market volatility is likely to be higher than normal and economic conditions could be rough. So some investors would like to put some of their assets into investments of greater security.
We are able to help you find a low-risk investment strategy that focuses on cash flow and security first. It’s important to look at your finances and see if any of the above strategies could help you in the long run.
At Agemy Financial Strategies, we want you to know we’re here to help you navigate retirement and answer any questions that come up during your retirement process. As Fiduciary advisors, it’s our duty to act on your behalf in finding the right solutions for your individual wants and needs.
For more information on our investing, retirement and financial planning services, contact us here today.
How to Make Your Dream Retirement a Reality
NewsAugust 21, 2024
Retirement is often viewed as the ultimate reward for decades of hard work—a time to relax, pursue passions, and enjoy life without the demands of a 9-to-5 job. However, transforming this vision into reality requires more than daydreaming; it demands purposeful planning and strategic action.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to envisioning your dream retirement and how a fiduciary advisor can help you achieve it. Here’s what you need to know.
Assess Your Financial Foundation
The first step in planning your dream retirement is understanding where you currently stand financially. This means taking a close look at your savings, investments, and income sources. Do you have enough in your 401(k), IRA accounts, pensions, and other investments to support the lifestyle you envision? Have you considered all potential income streams, including any passive income from investments?
On average, Americans say they’ll need around $1.46 million to retire comfortably. That represents a 15% increase from last year’s $1.27 million and a 53% increase from their $951,000 goal in 2020.
At Agemy Financial Strategies, we help you create a comprehensive financial snapshot that outlines your current assets and identifies any gaps in your retirement plan. This thorough assessment is crucial for building a retirement strategy tailored to your unique goals and circumstances.
Define Your Retirement Vision
Retirement looks different for everyone. Some envision spending their golden years traveling the world, while others see themselves settling into a quiet life surrounded by family. Defining what retirement means to you is key to planning effectively.
Consider questions like:
By clearly defining your retirement vision, you can create a plan that aligns with your personal aspirations. Agemy Financial Strategies takes a personalized approach, helping ensure that your retirement plan reflects your lifestyle goals, not just financial objectives.
Create a Sustainable Withdrawal Strategy
A sustainable withdrawal strategy is crucial to ensuring that your retirement savings last throughout your lifetime, providing you with financial security and peace of mind. This strategy involves carefully determining how much you can withdraw from your retirement accounts each year without depleting your resources too soon.
However, this one-size-fits-all approach may not suit everyone, as it doesn’t account for individual factors like market fluctuations, inflation, or personal spending habits. For some, a more conservative withdrawal rate might be necessary, while others may have the flexibility to withdraw a bit more, depending on their unique financial situation.
At Agemy Financial Strategies, we work with you to develop a withdrawal strategy that aligns with your income needs and risk tolerance. We consider market conditions, tax implications, and the overall financial picture to create a plan that maximizes your income while minimizing the risk of outliving your savings.
Plan for the Unexpected
Life is unpredictable, and even the best-laid plans can be disrupted by unforeseen events. An emergency fund is essential, whether it’s an economic downturn, a major health issue, or a change in family circumstances.
An Emergency Fund acts as a safety net, helping to provide the financial resources you need to navigate unforeseen circumstances – without jeopardizing your long-term financial goals or your hard-earned nest egg. Having funds set aside can alleviate stress and protect your assets, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your safety and well-being.
Creating a comprehensive preparedness plan is not a one-time task but an ongoing responsibility requiring regular attention and adjustments. As circumstances in life evolve, so should your strategy. Working alongside a fiduciary advisor can help you include this in your retirement plan.
Partner with a Trusted Advisor
Retirement planning is a complex process that requires ongoing attention and adjustment. Partnering with a trusted fiduciary advisor can make all the difference in achieving your retirement goals. At Agemy Financial Strategies, we pride ourselves on providing personalized, fiduciary-based advice that prioritizes your best interests. Here are some of the areas we can help you with:
Our team of dedicated fiduciaries is here to help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning, offering guidance and support every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
Envisioning your dream retirement is exciting, but turning that vision into reality requires careful planning. By assessing your financial foundation and defining your retirement vision, you can build a retirement plan that supports the life you’ve always dreamed of.
At Agemy Financial Strategies, we are committed to helping you plan for a fulfilling and secure retirement. As a Connecticut-based financial firm (with offices in Denver, Colorado), we understand the challenges people preparing for retirement face. Our purpose is to educate clients- whether planning for retirement, legacy planning, wealth management, or just holding your hand when it’s time to leap into retirement.
Contact us today to get started on this important journey.
Your Roadmap To Retiring In Connecticut
NewsThe state of Connecticut has a lot to offer retirees. If you’re considering retiring here, you’ll need a well-thought-out plan. Here’s what you need to know.
Connecticut is known for many fabulous reasons. Its four-season climate, Ivy League universities, and rich history are all things to admire. When the time to retire comes, many residents nearing retirement find themselves deciding whether to stay in their current city or move somewhere new. But one question remains, are your golden years worth relocating?
Agemy Financial Strategies is proud to have first opened our doors in the place we call home. With our headquarters in Guilford, CT, we can offer you experienced and knowledgeable advice on managing your retirement in this beautiful state. But before making such a life-changing decision, let’s look deeper at what retiring in Connecticut entails.
Step 1: Define Your Retirement Goals
Regardless of where you are in your retirement planning journey, clearly understanding your goals is important. Do you want to move closer to family? Do you want a beach life? In a quaint town, or a bustling city? Sitting down and identifying what you want to prioritize is paramount, whether it is proximity to family, cultural activities, or a peaceful natural environment.
Fortunately, Connecticut has a lot to offer its retirees. Connecticut beaches are only two hours away from the ocean at the furthest point when living here. Several popular destinations within the state include Hammonasset Beach State Park and Ocean Beach Park. The state boasts nearly 100 miles of coastline along the Long Island Sound and is crossed by four major rivers, providing residents with beautiful scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities.
It is a fantastic place for hiking, which includes a stretch of the Appalachian Trail. Most state parks have opportunities for you to enjoy, and a handful of forest preserves make for the perfect autumn trek. There is something for everyone to love when you live in Connecticut.
Step 2: Factor in the Cost of Living
How much do you need to retire comfortably? It’s a question in the mind of every American saving for retirement. Unfortunately, there’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. There are several rules of thumb to help you figure out how much to save to retire. But the exact dollar amount you need will depend on a variety of factors — especially where you plan to live in retirement.
When planning for retirement in Connecticut, it’s essential to consider the cost of living, which tends to be relatively high. In 2023 there was a notable increase in the cost of living adjustment, which rose to 8.7%. This adjustment can affect your retirement budget and financial planning, underlining the significance of factoring in these figures as you map out your retirement journey.
Furthermore, Connecticut house prices can quickly eat into your retirement savings. The median home price in the state stands at $379,836, up 5.0% over the past year. Renting a two-bedroom apartment or house can also come with a significant price tag, averaging $1,950 per month.
While the cost of a comfortable Connecticut retirement is down the list of the most affordable state to be in, according to GoBankingRates, Connecticut’s cost of living for retirees is still very much attainable:
This number was estimated based on an individual’s spending on groceries, healthcare, housing, utilities, and transportation – and the annual retirement income needed to cover these living expenses.
Step 3: Factor In Taxes
Including state-specific taxes is crucial when deciding where to spend the rest of your golden years. Taxes can erode your retirement income quickly if you are unprepared. Let’s take a look at four of the most common types of taxes you need to consider:
Working with a financial advisor can help you navigate Connecticut tax questions and concerns.
Step 4: Healthcare Considerations
The elephant in the room? Access to quality healthcare and the price tag it comes with. Connecticut ranked 3rd healthiest state in the nation by the United Health Foundation. 93% of patients in the state have healthcare coverage. But what about the cost of long-term care?
The average length of time people need long-term care services is 3 years. In 2022, the average cost for 3 years of long-term care in Connecticut is $546,132 ($182,044 annually). That cost is projected to be $986,376 ($328,792 annually) in 2042.
It’s important to factor in healthcare costs like LTC in retirement and ensure you are properly insured. Researching healthcare providers, Medicare coverage, and long-term care options helps ensure you’re well-prepared for any health-related needs that may arise during retirement. The peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve prepared for your healthcare needs can contribute significantly to your happiness (and financial stability) in retirement.
Step 5: Estate Planning Needs
When it comes to protecting your wealth, estate planning is one of the most important roadmaps to retirement. These legal documents help outline your healthcare proxies and establish powers of attorney if you pass away. This level of preparation can bring peace of mind to you and your family. Without a clear estate plan, the distribution of assets can lead to conflicts and disputes among family members.
It’s important to review your estate plans frequently, including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Consult with your financial advisor (preferably a Fiduciary) to help ensure your affairs are in order and your wishes are documented. This step is essential for securing your assets and providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Work With A Fiduciary Advisor
Whether you want to remain in Connecticut, move into Connecticut, or even out of our great state (stay!), working alongside a trusted Fiduciary Advisor can help your transition to retirement. At Agemy Financial Strategies, our Connecticut-based Fiduciary Advisors can provide invaluable assistance in developing a retirement income plan that encompasses crucial financial factors, such as:
Our Fiduciary Advisors are committed to working closely with you to make the most out of your retirement years. We understand that retirement planning looks different for each individual, and with that in mind, we carefully craft your plan to meet your specific needs. For a complete list of our service offerings, see here.
Final Thoughts
Retiring in Connecticut can be a wonderful and fulfilling experience with the right plan in place. By defining your goals and including all your possible expenses in retirement, you can be well on your way to a satisfying retirement in the Nutmeg State. Remember, retirement is a journey; with a solid roadmap, you can make it a journey of joy, exploration, and contentment.
At Agemy Financial Strategies, we want you to know we’re here to help you navigate retirement and any questions during your retirement process, wherever life takes you.
For more information on our retirement planning services, contact us today.
Healthcare & LTC Planning for Seniors
NewsAugust 14, 2024
August 21st is World Senior Citizens Day, a perfect time to celebrate our seniors and acknowledge their unique financial challenges in retirement.
Chances are, you’ll probably spend more in retirement than you think. Did you know that recent data shows a healthy 65-year-old couple might need over $395,000 for healthcare in retirement?
At Agemy Financial Strategies, we know how important it is to plan ahead for these expenses to help ensure a comfortable retirement. Our team is here to help seniors and their families navigate the details of healthcare and long-term care planning.
In this blog, we’ll provide essential insights into planning for healthcare and long-term care. We’ll cover key aspects of preparing for these significant costs and offer practical tips to help you create a robust plan for a financially stable retirement.
Why Seniors Need Both Healthcare and Long-Term Care
It’s important to understand the distinction between healthcare and long-term care, as they serve different purposes and have different financial implications. Seniors often require both healthcare and long-term care, as healthcare coverage alone may not address all their needs.
Healthcare focuses on treating and managing acute and chronic medical conditions. It covers medical expenses related to illnesses or injuries, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, medical procedures, surgeries, prescription medications, and preventive care. Typically, healthcare is covered by health insurance plans, including Medicare and private insurance policies.
Long-term care is about maintenance rather than treatment, aiming to provide comfort and safety. It includes assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility. Services can range from nursing home care and assisted living to in-home and adult day care. Unlike healthcare, long-term care is typically not covered by standard health insurance or Medicare, requiring separate long-term care insurance or personal savings.
Understanding these differences helps you make informed decisions about the type of care you may need in the future and how to plan financially for these needs.
Healthcare is a critical component of retirement planning. As we age, the likelihood of needing more frequent medical care increases, making it essential to have a robust healthcare plan. Finding the best health insurance for retirees and seniors involves evaluating various factors, including coverage options, costs, and additional benefits like prescription drug coverage.
Medicare often serves as the foundation for healthcare coverage for seniors, but understanding its parts—Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D—is crucial for complete coverage. Here is a closer look:
At Agemy Financial Strategies, our fiduciaries help clients navigate these options, helping ensure they choose a plan that fits their medical needs and financial situation. Let’s take a look at some crucial factors to consider.
The Growing Need for Long-Term Care
Long-term care is another critical aspect of planning for the senior years. This type of care encompasses various services designed to meet health or personal care needs over an extended period. The cost of long-term care can be substantial.
On average, a year in a nursing home can cost around $108,408 per year for a private room. However, these costs can vary widely based on location, so checking specific rates in your area is crucial. The financial commitment associated with long-term care requires careful planning to help ensure the well-being of your loved ones and your financial stability.
Medicare primarily covers acute care services for short-term illnesses and injuries, not long-term care. Long-term care supports individuals with chronic conditions or disabilities who need ongoing help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and eating. This kind of custodial care is not included in traditional Medicare coverage.
While Medicare does provide limited coverage for skilled nursing facility (SNF) care following a hospital stay, this is only for a short period and must be considered medically necessary. To help cover long-term care expenses, many people rely on private long-term care insurance, Medicaid, or sometimes both. Retirees must understand Medicare’s limitations in covering long-term care and plan accordingly as they age.
This comparison highlights the importance of planning for long-term care expenses, as costs can vary greatly depending on the location. For those approaching their senior years or planning for the future, understanding these costs and securing the right insurance or savings plans is crucial to help ensure financial stability and access to necessary care.
How Agemy Financial Strategies Can Help
Navigating healthcare and long-term care options can be daunting, especially considering the financial implications. If you’re in Connecticut or Colorado, our fiduciary advisors are here to help you plan effectively for your healthcare needs in retirement. At Agemy Financial Strategies, we recognize that healthcare costs can significantly threaten your retirement nest egg. That’s why we provide valuable assistance in developing a comprehensive retirement income plan that encompasses crucial financial factors, such as:
We understand that retirement planning looks different for each individual, so we carefully craft your plan to meet your specific needs. By taking a proactive approach, we help you manage healthcare expenses and maintain financial stability throughout your retirement.
Final Thoughts
National Senior Citizens Day reminds us to honor and support our senior community. Helping provide access to quality healthcare and planning for long-term care are essential steps in providing the security and peace of mind they deserve. At Agemy Financial Strategies, we are here to help every step of the way, providing the compassion needed to navigate these critical aspects of retirement planning.
Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in planning for a secure and comfortable future.