Financial Security

Boomers have been described by some demographers as the wealthiest in American history. However, this description belies the diversity of wealth within the cohort and the lack of plans many have made to prepare for their significantly increased life expectancy. Add the current worldwide economic crisis and Boomers face an even more precarious financial future…one that may include pension terminations, a decline in the value of their homes and investments, skyrocketing health care costs, and uncertain Social Security benefits.

The solution for many could involve cutting expenses and re-allocating assets. For most mid-life adults this will require a significant change in their financial habits. A 2008 study revealed that workers who are 7 years from retirement will, on average, have to cut their standard of living by about 24% to ensure they don’t run out of money in retirement – and that was before the 2008 financial meltdown.

A growing reality for many may be to work longer than planned. There are actually some unexpected benefits to a prolonged work life, including the ability to delay accessing a retirement income. Social Security benefits will also be higher for those who stay in the workforce longer. Then, too, work has value beyond just the income and health care benefits it provides. Work that is meaningful and allows for individual flexibility can provide a sense of purpose and social involvement. Society, as well, could benefit from the continued expertise of Boomers in the workforce – perhaps even helping to redefine and transform the meaning and structure of work itself, not just for mid-life adults but for workers of all ages.

• Community
• Financial Security
• Health
• Life After 50 Options
• Lifelong Learning
• Spirituality
• Volunteering
• Work

Did you know?

Often considered the wealthiest generation in American history, Boomers have the lowest savings rate (10%) of any previous generation.

Resources

Resource:MetLife: Mature Market InstituteNotes:Offers expertise in aging, longevity and the generations and is a recognized thought leader by business, the media, opinion leaders and the public. The Institute’s research, insights, strategic partnerships and consumer education expand the knowledge and choices for those in, approaching, or working with the 50+ market.

Author/Presenter:Eisenberg, Lee.Resource:The Number: What Do You Need for the Rest of Your Life and What Will it Cost?.Publisher:New York, NY: Free Press, 2007.Notes:Offers commonsense advice about the often anxiety-riddled discussion concerning financial planning for a secure and fulfilling future. The Number represents the amount of money and resources people will need to enjoy the active life they desire, especially post-career. From Wall Street to Main Street USA, The Number means different things to different people. It is constantly fluctuating in people’s minds and bank accounts, and is as much about self-worth as net-worth. This book is not an investment guide, but rather a look behind our most common financial and emotional conflicts and how we can begin to get a grip on them
WorldCat:www.worldcat.org/oclc/77274582

Author/Presenter:Nash, Laura and Stevenson, Howard.Resource:Just Enough: Tools for Creating Success in Your Work and Life.Publisher:Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, 2005.Notes:Discusses how constant striving means perpetual stress and how success, often defined in financial terms alone, actually involves four components: happiness, achievement, significance and legacy. Explains what these different components mean, how to define them, why “going for the max” is dangerous and how to determine one’s own version of enough
WorldCat:www.worldcat.org/oclc/57431734