Two actions everyone should take to ensure an enjoyable life after retirement

Posted on August 8, 2008 under , , ,

In times of such financial uncertainty – with tougher times on the horizon – having a solid understanding of your financial fitness and your options is critical.

In a special report by MSNBC (a joint venture between Microsoft and NBC) titled “Economy hitting the elderly especially hard”, the author suggests that the slumping economy is affecting retired people and the elderly more than any other demographic group.

Citing a study by the AARP, elderly Americans are filing for bankruptcy in record numbers.

The AARP also found:

  • 45 percent say food prices have caused a hardship for their budgets
  • 39 percent think at least some foods will have to be rationed within a year
  • 47 percent are shopping for food less frequently
  • 41 percent are eating less meat
  • 18 percent have started eliminating some meals

This is astounding! Now is the time to review and ensure your financial fitness!

A specific example of a service affected by the combination of higher fuel prices and higher food prices is the “Meals on Wheels” program. Whether you are a recipient of meals from this service or an active senior delivering meals, you can see the impact higher food and gas prices have in increasing the cost to both provide and deliver meals.

What can we do about this, other critical programs and our own well-being?

Knowing your financial options and preparing for the future are two things that all of us can do to make our senior years more comfortable, enjoyable and secure.

  • Research and buy Long-term Care Insurance. This can be a much better option than assuming a reverse mortgage or family will be able to support you later in life.

Click here for an article on long-term care insurance by the AARP.

  • Are you paying too much for Life Insurance?

Check out these two websites rated as “Best Quick Life Insurance Quotes” and “Best For Personalized Life Insurance” by Kiplinger magazine.

Get an instant and free Life Settlement Estimate and then decide if it makes sense to continue paying premiums on your policy. It is not uncommon to find a less expensive policy and fund the new policy and long-term care insurance by selling an existing policy!

To learn more about Senior Life Insurance Settlements, talk with your CPA, Attorney or go to http://www.thelifesettlementnetwork.com/.

Watch for (or subscribe to) this weekly blog/article series for a review of the latest news on finance issues facing seniors and for helpful websites and tips.

Questions and comments are welcome and encouraged.

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