Description: This article provides an overview of the relationship to COVID-19 to issues related to caregiving, family and long-term care, and related SOA research. The SOA has addressed these topics in several research reports not related to COVID-19 and in recent reports related to COVID-19. It is currently working on new projects to help people better address some of the issues. The article also includes some highlights of efforts by ASEC, the ERISA Advisory Council 2020 projects, and an educational program focused on these issues. It then focuses on a number of things that employers might do to be supportive in addressing these issues. The employer issues focus on employees, retirees and caregiving employers. In thinking about this, employers can focus on financial wellness programs, employee assistance programs, and prepaid legal programs. A list of topics to considered for educational offers is included.

Description: Millions of aging Americans are challenged to prepare for uncertain health and financial setbacks in addition to cognitive impairment that impacts one-third of adults over age 85. Advanced planning can reduce the negative impact of impairment on personal finances, including financial exploitation, scams and fraud, and care and spending decisions that are not aligned with retirement goals. To address these issues, the SOA’s Aging and Retirement Strategic Research Program co-sponsored work on the Thinking Ahead Roadmap which was created by a team from the University of Minnesota and Stanford Center on Longevity. In this webinar, members of the research team will preview the Thinking Ahead Roadmap and the steps that people can take to help ensure their financial wishes are honored as they age. The presenters will discuss: 1. Advice on choosing the right financial advocate 2. Organizing financial information to pave the way for a smooth transition 3. Starting open and honest conversations about future money management 4. The importance of a financial power of attorney and how to obtain one 5. Shifting money management responsibilities when the time is right