How Technology Is Making It Easier and More Cost Effective for Retirees to Age in PlaceAccording to a recent national survey, 90% of adults, age 50 or older, say they want to remain in their current homes as they age. The survey also notes that the pandemic has led many to give some serious thought to the resources they may need to age in place safely, from assistance with daily living activities to how they will access medical care.1 Aging in place can be a cost-effective housing solution—if you plan ahead. However, due largely to a shortage of paid caregivers that began well before the pandemic, the average annual cost of homemaker services ($53,768) and home health aides ($54,912) has risen to a level on par with assisted living facilities ($51,600) in recent years. However, skilled nursing home care still far outpaced all other options at an average annual cost of $93,075 for a semi-private room and $105,850 for a private room in 2020.2 So what can you or someone you care about do to remain at home longer? Consider how technology is helping more retirees age in place safely. For example, wearable emergency alert systems can detect falls and summon help, while certain smart watches, fitness bands, mobile apps and devices can monitor heart rate or detect blood glucose levels. Telehealth services, which are now covered by most insurers, including Medicare, enable virtual visits with healthcare providers. Other smart technology is designed to help safeguard your home and its occupants, such as:
Ecommerce is also helping more retirees to age in place, especially those who may no longer drive or have access to public transportation. In fact, people age 65-plus are the fastest-growing group among online shoppers and increasingly rely on the convenience of home delivery for everything from groceries and clothing to prescription medications, personal care items, pet supplies, and more.3 These and other technological advances continue to make life safer, easier and more convenient for those who prefer to remain in their homes in retirement. If you have questions about planning for your lifestyle needs and preferences in retirement, contact the office to schedule time to talk. 1https://www.capitalcaring.org/nearly-90-of-americans-age-50-and-older-want-to-age-in-place/ 4 Tax-Smart Ways to Help Pay for a Grandchild’s EducationOne of the best ways that grandparents can provide a lasting legacy is by helping to fund a grandchild’s education expenses. Below are four ways to help accomplish this goal during your lifetime, or afterward.
If you have questions about planning your legacy, contact the office to discuss your specific situation and schedule time to talk. 1 https://www.finra.org/investors/learn-to-invest/types-investments/saving-for-education/529-savings-plans This information was written by KRW Creative Concepts, a non-affiliate of the broker-dealer. Asset allocation is an investment strategy that will not guarantee a profit or protect you from loss. These examples are hypothetical only, and do not represent the actual performance of any particular investments. Investments in securities do not offer a fixed rate of return. Principal, yield and/or share price will fluctuate with changes in market conditions and when sold or redeemed, you may receive more or less than originally invested. Investors should also consider whether the investor’s or beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefits available only from that state’s 529 Plan. Any state-based benefit should be one of many appropriately weighted factors in making an investment decision. The investor should consult their financial or tax advisor before investment in any state's 529 Plan. |

Retire Wise | September 2021
September 14, 2021
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