1 in 4 adults with children worry about who will care for them as they age: 4 tips for securing your financial future

1 in 4 adults with children worry about who will care for them as they age: 4 tips for securing your financial future
1 in 4 adults with children worry about who will care for them as they age: 4 tips for securing your financial future

According to new data from Pew Research Center, 35% of childless adults older than 50 worry about not having enough money in their later years, while one in four are concerned about who will provide care for them as they age.

Mark La Spisa, a certified financial planner and president of Vermilion Financial, advises that people over 50 should begin investing in their financial and housing security immediately.

"According to La Spisa, waiting until age 65 to evaluate one's situation is what leads to anxiety. This is known as the "Ostrich Plan," where individuals bury their head in the sand and hope for a positive outcome."

Four tips for a safe and comfortable future are:

1. Do a 'financial fire drill'

La Spisa recommends performing a financial fire drill daily starting at age 50.

Consider all your current assets, expenses, and savings to predict your financial situation in retirement.

La Spisa suggests taking your current path and observing its appearance on the night before your 65th birthday without making any changes.

To assess any changes in your financial situation, it's important to review your budget annually.

Assessing your cash flow can help you determine if your spending or saving habits need to change in the next decade or so.

2. Sign up for long-term care insurance

Long-term care insurance offers a range of services not typically covered by regular health insurance, such as assistance with daily activities like bathing and dressing, as well as reimbursement for assisted living facilities.

According to La Spisa, transferring the risk of long-term care from yourself to an insurance company is possible with quality coverage.

Before deciding to reside in a nursing home or assisted living facility, it's recommended to visit some prior to the time when you need to make a decision.

3. Make sure your home and city are 'aging friendly'

If you don't want to move to a nursing home, assess if your home can accommodate your mobility level, advises Carolyn McClanahan, a physician, financial planner, and founder of Life Planning Partners.

If you have mobility issues or use a walker, a three-story home may not be suitable.

"Make sure your home is aging friendly," McClanahan says.

Consider the distance to hospitals and grocery stores and the mode of transportation needed when rewriting the input sentence.

"Living in a car-dependent area where you can't drive can be challenging. Consider residing in a walkable community for easier access to what you need."

4. 'Make deposits of kindness'

Elder care is safest when community is involved.

McClanahan advises that if you lack a dependable family or individuals who have committed to caring for you, it is essential to establish a support system.

You can participate in a team sport or volunteer at your community center.

"When you make deposits of kindness, you can build a network of friends and support through community involvement."

You're not looking for a caretaker, but rather creating a social life with people who will check in on you and be there to help if needed.

"McClanahan says, "It takes a village, so make sure you're participating.""

To stop worrying about money, enroll in CNBC's online course, Financial Wellness: Be Happier, Wealthier & More Financially Secure. We'll teach you the psychology of money, stress management, and healthy financial habits. Plus, use code EARLYBIRD for a 30% discount through September 2, 2024. Start today!

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