1045 Lower Gold Camp Road REGISTER NOW AND ENTER TO WIN A KING SOOPERS GIFT CARD
You will want to be at The Gazette’s FREE Senior Life Expo at the Norris Penrose Event Center on Saturday, September 20. Hear from experts on health, wellness, finance, technology and more, from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Get ready to stop, look, listen and learn from presenters and exhibitors, and get information on products and services to help you age happily and healthily. You’ll even have the opportunity to win a King Soopers gift card!
Visit SeniorLifeExpoCS.com today to learn more.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Senior Life Expo and thank you in advance for helping us make it the biggest and best one ever!
or go to:
These exhibitors will be available at the Expo to answer your questions:
AARP
Adaptive Mobility
AgeWise Colorado
All American Gutter
Aspen Trail Resort
Bath Fitter
C2 Financial –
Kevin A. Guttman, CRMP
Cereset Colorado Springs
CIGNA
Clear Spring Health
Colorado ENT & Allergy
Colorado Springs
Philharmonic
CommonSpirit
Deeper Dive Horizons
ECCO Medical
The Gasper Law Group
Graberg Insurance Solutions
Humana
Kaiser Permanente
Law Office of Bridget Grace
Life Without Lupus
MacKenzie Place
Mobility City
Mountain View
Independent Living
Mutual of Omaha
Optum Colorado
Peak Forensic Psych Services
Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments
Pikes Peak Hospice and Palliative Care
Pikes Peak Library District
Relay Colorado
Renewal By Andersen
Rocky Mountain PACE
SAC – Seniors
Advocate Collaborative
Select Health
Silver Key Senior Services
Skylight Health Research
Stellar Living
UCHealth Memorial Hospital
UnitedHealthcare
Vanguard Skin Specialists
SESSION TIME ROOM 1 ROOM 2 ROOM 3 ROOM 4 ROOM 5
9:15 a.m. Five Wishes Silver Key Senior Services
10:15 a.m.
11:15 a.m.
The Skin You’re In: Common Concerns and Healthy Solutions for Seniors Vanguard Skin Specialists
Preserving and Protecting Your Estate For Your Family The Gasper Law Group
12:15 p.m.
Medicare Extra Benefits: What is Available to Keep You Healthy Clear Spring Health
Building Your Independent Future Adaptive Mobility
The PACE Model of Care — Best Kept Secret Rocky Mountain PACE
I Think I’m a Caregiver, What Now? Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments
Embolization Explained: A Minimally Invasive Alternative for Lasting Pain Relief ECCO Medical Understanding Your Sinuses Colorado ENT & Allergy
Memory Matters: Cognotive Screening & New Available Treatments Peak Forensic Psych Services
Medicare 101 UnitedHealthcare
1:15 p.m.
Fear of Falling: Break the Cycle UCHealth Memorial Hospital
Stressed Out and Sleepless: Natural Solutions for a Better Brain and Body Cereset Colorado Springs
Navigating The Gazette’s e-Edition
Jon Mitchell, The Gazette
Regenerative Nutrition: Food Is Medicine Life Without Lupus
Make Your Money Last Mutual of Omaha
Let’s Learn Together: Your Guide to Cell Phone Accessibility Relay Colorado
Elder Law The Gasper Law Group
Researching Your Story — Researching Your Family Tree Pikes Peak Library District How A Reverse Mortgage Changed My Life: Stories of Hope, Courage and Inspiration C2 Financial Supplements or Medicare Advantage? Navigating Your Choices Select Health
Medication Safety that Allows you to Treasure the Golden Years! Deeper Dive Horizons
Medicare 101 Humana SPEAKERS AND SESSIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
THANK YOU TO THESE SENIOR LIFE SPONSORS!
PLATINUM LEVEL SPONSORS
DIAMOND LEVEL SPONSORS
HOW’S YOUR BALANCE?
Here’s what that could mean for heart and brain health
BY GENARO C. ARMAS, AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION NEWS
It is an ability and skill often taken for granted. It affects quality of life and has been linked to heart disease and stroke. As we age and our muscles weaken, balance becomes crucial to staying active and supporting a healthy heart and brain.
“Balance is important because it’s one of the attributes that allows you do to physical activity,” said Dr. Kelley Gabriel, a professor of epidemiology and associate dean at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health. “Everything you do involves some level of balance — standing at the sink, mopping, walking the dog. It’s embedded into almost every single activity.”
According to federal physical activity guidelines, balance training should be part of the weekly exercise routine for older adults to help prevent falls, another frequent problem for stroke survivors. Such exercises include walking backward, standing on one leg or using a wobble board. Use caution and work with a coach or training partner if needed. Activities that strengthen the back, abdomen and legs also improve balance, the guidelines say.
Balance is a “multifaceted physiological process” that involves vision, the vestibular system in the inner ear and the nervous system, researchers wrote in a 2024 study in the Journal of the American Heart Association. The Swedish study included 4,927 participants without cardiovascular disease who were 70 years old. Their balance was measured at the start of the study using a balance board. After five years of follow-up, researchers found that problems with lateral balance — the ability to remain stable while shifting weight from one side of the body to the other — were associated with a higher risk for heart attack and stroke.
Similarly, a 2023 study in the European Journal of Medical Research found that among nearly 130,000 adults age 60 and older in Korea, those with balance
impairment may be at increased risk for coronary heart disease or stroke.
Two 2024 studies — one in the Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease and the other in the Journals of Gerontology Series A — also found an association between balance impairment and increased risk of dementia among older adults.
Dr. Pei-Shiun Chang, associate professor of community and health systems at the Indiana University School of Nursing in Bloomington, said that while impaired balance may be an early indicator of brain and heart health, and vice versa, “you can never say if someone has issues with their balance that they also have some issues with their brain or heart. You need to dig more into their medical history.”
Gabriel agreed, saying that direct connections between balance and heart and brain health cannot be made because conditions such as cardiovascular disease and dementia develop over decades, and may arise because of other risk factors. “It becomes very challenging to measure the relationship between balance and things like cardiovascular disease and dementia given balance is so challenging to isolate from other aspects of physical activity,” she said.
One relationship that is more certain, Gabriel said, is that the more active someone is, the better their balance is likely to be. And balance is a key factor in preventing falls, which is the leading cause of injury among adults 65 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Clinicians should assess balance and risk for falling in people with cardiovascular diseases, according to a 2022 American Heart Association scientific statement that says patients with any loss of balance should be referred for physical therapy.
Balance exercises can help with the recovery process for those who have had a heart event or stroke. People should plan their
exercise program with a health care professional, Chang said. Start slowly with exercises that strengthen the foot and lower leg muscles, and work with a rehabilitation specialist or family member who can assist if needed. Gradually build up duration and intensity.
“Maybe start with a short walk in your neighborhood, and once you feel like you can tolerate that level, slowly increase intensity. Then move on to other exercises,” Chang said.
She recommended toe stands, which is a balance exercise that requires someone to stand or move on the tips of their toes, as great balance training for older adults since it strengthens the calves and ankles.
In general, many lower-body strength training exercises can
improve balance for people of all ages. Practicing yoga and Pilates can help with balance, strength and flexibility.
Chang also recommends qigong, a form of traditional Chinese mind-body exercise, as another practice that can improve balance, flexibility, muscle strength and overall health, especially for older adults. Qigong, which is similar to tai chi, combines slow and precise body movements with controlled breathing and mental focus.
American Heart Association News covers heart and brain health. Not all views expressed in this story reflect the official position of the American Heart Association. Copyright is owned or held by the American Heart Association, Inc., and all rights are reserved.
Did you know that untreated
If you suspect hearing loss don’t delay and come see us for a free screening and consultation.
We have been helping people hear better for three generations since 1957 and have the most experienced staff of Audiologists in Southern Colorado.
New patients 55+ only-exam copies will incur customary fee.
You are invited to The Nature Place just outside Colorado Springs. The destination, near Pikes Peak, is a mission-driven retreat and conference center, where experiential learning, leisure and nature converge; and transformation happens naturally, in the stillness of the pines and grandeur at the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.
Thousands of guests — from families to corporate teams, students, college alumni, and group travelers — have benefited from world-class programs in leadership, team development and natural history exploration held outdoors. They have become more empowered, personally, and professionally, having left The Nature Place changed for the better, with an increased sense of self, sense of wonder, and sense of community.
• A dedicated care team specializing in the health needs of people 65+
• A personalized care plan and resources for better health made easier
• Affordable, high-quality care that puts you first
Looking to improve your health? Check out these recommendations from the American Medical Association: Make nutritional tweaks: Reduce your intake of sugarsweetened beverages and processed foods, especially those with added sodium and sugar. Drinking sugary beverages, even 100% fruit juices, is associated with a higher mortality risk, according to a study published in JAMA Network Open. Drink water and choose nutritious, whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, low-fat dairy products, and lean meats and poultry.
Get active: A recent study published in JAMA found that putting down the TV remote and going for a walk can improve healthy aging — highlighting the importance of small everyday habits. Adults should get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity, or 75 minutes a week of vigorousintensity activity.
Get up-to-date: Get your vaccines in advance of respiratory virus season — including the annual flu vaccine and the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine for everyone six months and older, as well as pregnant people. People 65 and older and those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should receive a second dose of the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine six months later. RSV can be
ARCHIVE YOUR FAMILY HISTORY
SMART CHOICES
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BETTER HEALTH
dangerous for older adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend those 75 and older, and 60 and older at high risk for severe RSV, get vaccinated. Immunizations are also available to protect babies from getting very sick from RSV. This is important because RSV
is the leading cause of infant hospitalization nationwide. If you have questions, speak with your physician and review trusted resources, including GetMyFluShot.org. You can also reduce the spread of respiratory viruses by covering coughs and sneezes, frequently washing your hands, wearing masks, improving air quality, and staying home if you are sick.
Get screened: Make an appointment for preventive care, tests and screenings to help your doctor spot certain conditions before they become more serious.
Know your blood pressure numbers: To understand your blood pressure numbers and take necessary steps to get hypertension under control, visit ManageYourBP.org. If checking your blood pressure at home, visit ValidateBP.org
to see if your device has been tested for accuracy. Learn your type 2 diabetes risk: Take a two-minute self-screening test at DoIHavePrediabetes.org. Steps you take now can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes, which carries a higher risk of heart disease, kidney disease and vision loss. Drink only in moderation: If consuming alcohol, do so in moderation as defined by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans — up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men, and only by adults of legal drinking age.
Quit tobacco and nicotine: Ask your doctor for resources and guidance for quitting tobacco and nicotine. Declare your home and car smokefree to eliminate secondhand smoke exposure.
Follow dosage instructions: When taking prescription opioids or other medications, store them safely to prevent diversion or misuse, and properly dispose of any leftover medication. If you are prescribed antibiotics, take the full course to prevent antibiotic resistance — a serious public health problem.
Manage stress: Good mental health is part of good overall health. Get sufficient sleep (at least 7.5 hours per night), exercise and ask for help from a mental health professional when you need it.
Healthy habits can help you live a richer, fuller life,” said Bruce A. Scott, M.D., president of the AMA. “Even small, positive choices you make now can have a big impact on your long-term wellbeing.” More tips can be found by visiting ama-assn.org.
Karen.M.Radcliffe@kp.org
Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc. mykpagent.org/Karend Direct: 719-246-4770
THE GASPER LAW GROUP
THE NATURE PLACE
Life doesn’t always go as planned. Whether you’re dealing with a divorce, criminal charges, planning for the future or navigating the legal side of caring for aging parents — it can all feel overwhelming. This is where The Gasper Law Group excels.
Based in Colorado Springs, The Gasper Law Group has been helping individuals and families across Southern Colorado for more than 20 years. Their friendly, experienced team focuses on family law, divorce, criminal defense, estate planning, elder law and probate. Simply put — they’re here when you need trusted guidance the most. What really sets them apart? They believe everyone deserves great legal representation, no matter their situation; and you can afford it. With low retainers and no-
interest payment plans, they make it easy to get the help you need without added financial stress.
With over 100 years of combined experience, the firm includes former prosecutors who know the system inside and out — and how to fight for the best possible outcome.
Clients consistently praise the firm for being responsive, supportive and professional every step of the way. And with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau , you know you’re in good hands.
Whatever you’re facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out to The Gasper Law Group for a consultation — they’ll listen, guide you and stand by your side every step of the way.
Visit www.gasperlaw.com to learn more.
Adventure with purpose Tough time? The Gasper Law Group can help
The Nature Place is more than a destination — it is an invitation to pause, connect, and discover in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. Located near Pikes Peak, our mission-driven retreat and conference center blends four decades of hospitality with a passion for experiential learning in nature. For over 40 years, we have welcomed thousands of guests — families seeking meaningful time together, corporate teams building trust, Denver Public Schools fostering growth in students, college alumni reconnecting, and group travelers seeking something greater in an outdoor experience. Each visit is grounded in the belief that time spent in nature has the power to inspire a sense of self, wonder, community, and Earth to foster a sense of the future.
Our forested setting, nestled on a private mountain ranch just outside Colorado Springs, offers the perfect balance of seclusion and comfort. Forty-seven wellappointed studio apartments, each with a fireplace and private deck, provide cozy accommodations
that complement the expansive wilderness surrounding us.
Guests enjoy nourishing meals, crafted with care, alongside amenities such as a sauna, hot tub, observatory, indoor bouldering wall, and athletic facilities. Beyond the rooms, the landscape itself becomes the classroom — high rope courses, guided hikes, rock climbing, stargazing, orienteering, and team-building challenges invite individuals and groups alike to stretch, grow, and bond.
We practice stewardship of the land through sustainable initiatives and embrace the principles of “Leave No Trace,” ensuring that our guests not only experience the mountains but also develop a deeper respect for them. Come to strengthen your organization, celebrate a milestone, or simply restore your spirit.
The Nature Place offers a sanctuary where learning, leisure and nature converge. Here, in the stillness of the pines and the grandeur of the Rockies, transformation happens naturally.
Child published her first cookbook at 49. Colonel Sanders launched KFC at 65. Grandma Moses began painting at 78.
AMADA SENIOR CARE
Expert assistance when your long-term care policy is having short-term challenges
SPONSORED FEATURE
People who have long-term care insurance are lucky. They considered what would happen to them — or someone they love — if care or assistance was needed later in life. They thought about the financial impact having a chronic condition, disability or disorder like Alzheimer’s disease would have on their family. They thought they were prepared for what might lie ahead ... until a trip to the mailbox found that their long-term care insurance premiums had increased beyond their imaginations!
The long-term care insurance landscape is evolving, with the industry facing both legal and operational challenges this year. Costs are rising and regulations are changing. Demand for long-term care services is increasing and claims are higher than expected among an aging baby boomer population.
Many long-term care policyholders have struggled to keep up with the increased costs of their premiums for 10 years, due to the financial strain on insurance companies. Two of the most important considerations for those facing a diminishing return on their investment is affordability and effectiveness.
A regular review of existing policies can help ... especially with the assistance of the professionals at Amada Senior Care. The business, a one-stop shop for long-term care insurance claims management and advocacy, has a team of experts in place to help identify and analyze the requirements of your policy, including elimination periods, maximum daily benefit, and lifetime benefits and coverage. They can help you understand your coverage limitations and options, and evaluate your long-term care needs, including
plans for aging in place. Amada Senior Care is where your questions about continuing coverage, adjusting benefits or choosing a different option can be answered.
“Insurance companies sold you something that was better than they thought,” said Ken Jenson, owner at Amada Senior Care Colorado Springs. “Now, people find themselves facing astronomical increases in premiums, as rates are being raised alongside the cost of living for long-term care services. Before you make any changes — to your coverage or its cost — consult with an expert at Amada who can help you manage and mitigate long-term care insurance costs.”
There’s a reason Amada Senior Care is a trusted resource for long-term care insurance. Visit www.amadaseniorcare.com/longterm-care-insurance/ to learn more.
VANGUARD SKIN SPECIALISTS
Compassionate care from the heart
Vanguard Skin Specialists understand that noticing a new or unusual spot on your skin can be unsettling, and waiting weeks — or even months— for an appointment only adds to the worry. That’s why they created the WOW Promise: if you discover a new or concerning spot, you’ll be seen by a dermatology provider Within One Week
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S., affecting one in five Americans during their lifetime. The good news is that when detected early, most skin cancers can be treated successfully. Quick access to care can make all the difference, offering patients not only timely treatment but also peace of mind. Unfortunately, long waits for dermatology appointments remain common. The team at Vanguard
believes your health — and your sense of security — shouldn’t have to wait.
“If my family member had a concerning growth, I’d want them seen right away,” said Dr. Michael Leslie. That same sense of urgency and compassion drives how Vanguard cares for every patient who walks through their doors.
When you choose Vanguard, you’ll find more than exceptional medical expertise. You’ll find a
team who treats you like family — listening with empathy, guiding you through your care and standing beside you at every step. Whether you need a skin exam, treatment or ongoing dermatology support, Vanguard’s mission is to deliver both clinical excellence and heartfelt reassurance.
Vanguard is proud to sponsor the Senior Life Expo, celebrating the strength, wisdom and vitality of older adults in our community. If you notice a spot that concerns you, do not wait — call 719-355-1585 today and experience the Vanguard WOW Promise: Within One Week.
Vanguard Skin Specialists is located at 12320 Oracle Blvd., Ste. 350, Colorado Springs, Colo., 80921. Learn more at www.vanguardskin.com.
OPTUM
Health your way
Our senior care puts the focus where it belongs: on you. Your primary care provider ( PCP) acts as your guide and partner. Your PCP will help you with specialty care referrals, medications, tests, and treatments to keep you well.
Keep up with your health
We want to make sure you don’t feel rushed and have time to discuss issues and ask questions, so we can get to know you and your medical history. That’s why we’re proud to offer longer annual wellness visits. This extended visit includes a comprehensive, onehour physical exam. Besides answering your questions, this exam provides the opportunity to update your medical history. As part of the exam, you may receive tests based on your
individual needs. We can also update your medications.
Personalized care
We provide custom care for your unique health needs. We have hundreds of local health care providers offering primary and preventive care to help keep you healthy, as well as flu and pneumonia shots, diagnostic services and lab services (blood tests, urine tests, etc.).
Optum offers primary and specialty care at 14 locations throughout the Pikes Peak region. Services include ongoing care, checkups, tests, and treatments for minor injuries and illnesses. We also now offer in-clinic behavioral health services at all of our primary care clinics to care for your mental and emotional health. Your primary care provider can be
the first line of action in discussing possible treatments or approaches to achieving mental well-being. The integration of behavioral health and primary care is a proven tactic to positively impact health outcomes.
We’re here to help
You’ll find us throughout Colorado Springs and the surrounding Pikes Peak region.
We offer helpful services and programs, plus a network of community providers. Get help with in-home visits, medicine reviews and more.
For more information about Optum, or how to become a Medicare Advantage member, please visit optum.com/colorado or call 719-247-3099, TTY 711.
Live your best retirement!
When you think of “senior living,” what comes to mind? Award-winning dining options? Annual golf tournaments? Chauffeur service? What about your own personal concierge, educational lectures, getting involved in your local community, or setting fitness goals? That’s probably not what you think of – unless you are thinking of MacKenzie Place –Colorado Springs.
MacKenzie Place is the premier senior living community in Colorado Springs, offering cottages, independent living, assisted living, and memory care. The proud, consistent recipient of the best retirement community in the Gazette’s Best of the Springs, MacKenzie Place empowers residents to continue living the life they love while receiving the care services they need.
Moving to MacKenzie Place does not mean sacrificing independence, privacy, or your active lifestyle. Your retirement is yours to design. With well-trained
caregivers, a dedicated support staff, and amenities that rival most five-star resorts, MacKenzie Place offers a dynamic activity calendar that makes retirement feel more like a resort vacation.
The community features restaurant-style dining with award-winning food. Residents enjoy a wide range of activities and amenities that meet diverse interests and needs. The activities include
everything from fitness classes, outings, educational lectures, movies, and special groups like ping pong, poker, discussion groups, book club, and more.
MacKenzie Place is also proud to offer its signature PrimeFit Wellness program, a fitness program that really makes fitness fun! Residents participate in group fitness classes, water classes, and personal training sessions to maintain and increase health and wellness.
Combine all of that with weekly housekeeping services, scheduled transportation, a salon, library, maintenance services, and even a concierge, living at MacKenzie Place is more like a resort vacation than typical retirement.
Interested in learning more? Visit MacKenziePlaceColoradoSprings.com or call (719) 745-5172 to learn how senior living at MacKenzie Place can help you live your best retirement!
A CLOSER LOOK …
AMERICAN FURNITURE GALLERIES:
Create the home of your dreams with eclectic, elegant
Pick a room — any room — and American Furniture Galleries can help you furnish it, whatever your style! From living rooms to dining rooms and bedrooms, the oldest and most trusted furniture and mattress company in Colorado is there to help.
Need a home entertainment unit? Looking for home accents? Does your mattress need to be replaced? Look no further than American Furniture Galleries, where you will find high-end furniture, lamps and accessories, along with professional interior design services.
American Furniture Galleries truly is one-stop shopping for all your home furnishing needs. Discover world-famous comfort and functionality in the Scandanavian-designed products by Stressless by Ekornes, manufactured in Norway. The
company’s products — including chairs with footstools, recliners with ottomans, loveseats, sofas and more — have been endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association. Plus, those with mobility issues are invited to come in to try out the lift chairs from UltraComfort. With a selection of innovative designs and high-end fabrics to choose from, who would think the chairs that help users sit and stand more quickly were from a medical device company?
American Furniture Galleries is open seven days a week! Visit the showroom Monday to Saturday at 3212 W. Platte Ave., in Colorado Springs, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Call 719-632-6621 with questions, or to schedule an appointment today! You may also visit www.AmericanFurniture.com.
just expanded. Now 16,667 sq ft of FUN!
We are a donation based scrap store that carries an impressive mix of arts, craft & hobby supplies plus unique vintage finds. We carry everything from scrapbook paper to game pieces, from used books to sewing patterns — the variety is a crafter’s dream. The reuse of materials is the most environmentally friendly way to reduce the waste stream. Come search for treasures on our 7,800 sq ft sales floor! 415 Tons Diverted from our landfills in 10 years so far
IN RETIREMENT:
Looking for love and financial security
For many Americans, being single in retirement was not part of their life’s plan. Yet millions will face their second act without a partner, adding financial strain to this significant life transition, according to a Advisor Authority study, powered by the Nationwide Retirement Institute.
A quarter (25%) of single investors say they did not plan to be alone in retirement and nearly the same share (22%) say they are scared to grow old alone. Only a small group (9%) say they enjoy the independence of being single in retirement. Despite these challenges, single investors remain optimistic about finding new love, with a quarter (26%) still hoping to find a partner in retirement.
Those planning for retirement without a partner are bracing for added financial headwinds.
More than a third (37%) of single investors say they experience more strain or financial hardship compared to their married or partnered peers, a rate that increases significantly for single investors under 50 years old (44%). Non-retired single investors are concerned about their retirement prospects, with 18% indicating they do not know if they will ever be able to retire.
The amount this cohort has saved for retirement, compared to their perceived target savings goals, shows a significant disconnect. Nearly half (46%) of single investors say they would need up to $600,000 in retirement savings to feel comfortable about their future. Yet, just 23% say they have at least $250,000 saved and only 18% say they have $500,000 or more saved towards retirement.
Nationwide Annuity Distribution.
“It’s not surprising they believe they need to hit a ‘magic number’ in retirement to live comfortably. What’s important to remember is that everyone’s savings goal will vary based on more than just relationship status. It’s good to have an attainable goal, but holistic financial planning with an advisor — who can help address single retirees’ unique needs — is a more constructive way to think about achieving a secure retirement.”
Single and partnered investors vary in their approaches
Single investors may be missing some opportunities to optimize their investment approach compared to their coupled counterparts. For example:
Less than half (49%) of single investors who have a strategy to protect assets against market risks say they focus on diversification of assets or non-correlated assets in their retirement portfolios, compared to 62% of partnered investors.
About 34% of single investors do not currently have a strategy in place to protect their assets against market risk, compared to 27% of partnered investors.
Single investors are less likely to turn to an advisor or financial professional for help, with just 35% saying they currently pay to work with one, compared to 46% of partnered investors.
“Single investors are facing retirement challenges that their coupled counterparts are not, relying solely on their individual saving efforts compared to those with a second source of income from a partner,” said Rona Guymon,
Single investors who do work with a financial professional find the most important benefits of doing so include protecting their assets against market risk (20%), helping them make more informed decisions (15%) and keeping them focused on long-term goals (15%).
For advisors, decumulation and tax strategies have become a priority
senior vice president of
Financial professionals are focused on guiding their single
We Speak Medicare
SMART CHOICES
SINGLE IN RETIREMENT
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21
clients toward a stable retirement, ensuring they have the resources and strategies needed to navigate their finances.
Nearly half (49%) of advisors are providing guidance to their single clients approaching retirement on when to claim Social Security benefits, and a similar share (49%) are discussing when to withdraw funds from retirement accounts.
Tax planning is another key area of focus. More than a third (36%) of advisors are developing a plan to combat negative tax impacts traditionally alleviated by spousal income for single clients approaching retirement.
“Whether you’re a single person planning for retirement or a financial professional working with one, it’s important to recognize there are several elements of financial planning that may be different when retiring without a partner,” Guymon said.
She highlights the following considerations for singles to address with a financial professional: Emergency funds: Building a robust emergency fund is key for single retirees who may not have a secondary source of income from a partner to provide financial stability should adversity arise.
Estate planning: Estate planning may look different for those who do not have a partner or children. Not only is it important to clarify beneficiaries, but also who will speak on a single retiree’s behalf should they lose the ability to represent themselves.
Long-term care: Single retirees may be less likely to have a natural caregiving solution in place. it is important
to consider long-term care solutions as early as possible in the planning process.
Taxes: Without the benefit of filing jointly, single retirees often face higher tax rates compared to married couples without proper tax planning strategies in place.
Social isolation: While this may seem out of scope for some financial professionals, an important part of a single person’s retirement plan should be building a strong support network. Isolation or loneliness can impact emotional wellbeing, which can lead to poor financial decisions.
“The benefits of working with a trusted advisor are clear when it comes to feeling confident about living in retirement, regardless of relationship status,” Guymon said. “In today’s highly volatile market conditions, advisors should help single investors stay focused on their long-term plan and understand the value of protection solutions, like annuities. This is particularly important for those without the additional security of a partner to fall back on.”
Methodology
The Harris Poll, on behalf of Nationwide, conducted an online survey in the U.S. among 610 advisors and financial professionals and 2,524 investors ages 18 and older with investable assets of $10K or more, January 6-25. Among the investors, there were 866 single investors in total including 423 women investors, 434 men investors, 460 investors age <50, 406 investors age 50+ as well as 1,658 married or partnered investors.
Kathleen Graberg
> Chamberlin Hall
Phase One Opening Summer 2025
> Phase Two
Construction
Begins Spring 2026
Continuing Mr. Winfield Scott Stratton’s legacy of providing affordable housing to aging adults 62+.
Income restrictions apply.
Long-term care insurance companies are raising their rates and sending you options to choose from.
make the mistake of choosing the wrong option! At
agency that specializes in helping you access and maximize your long-term care
LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE
• Free expert policy review
• Understanding your benefits
DID YOU KNOW?
• When you start using your policy, you stop paying your premium.
• Your benefits have either doubled or tripled while you held onto these policies.
