As 2025 draws to a close, it’s an ideal moment to pause and reflect—not only on the milestones we’ve achieved but also on the future we are shaping for our loved ones. At Foundational Wealth Partners, our mission is to empower families across Middle America with the financial insight and education they need to build and protect lasting legacies. This month, we’re spotlighting two critical pillars of financial preparedness: long-term care planning and estate planning.
The Reality of Long-Term Care: Are You Truly Prepared?
Many families underestimate the financial and emotional impact of long-term care. National statistics paint a sobering picture: over 70% of individuals age 65 and older will need some form of long-term care during their lifetime. However, 64% of Americans have done little to no planning for this eventuality, often waiting until a health crisis forces a decision.
The costs are significant and rising. In 2025, average monthly expenses for home health care exceed $7,600, while nursing home costs can surpass $13,600. Without a clear strategy, these costs can quickly deplete retirement savings, putting both your financial security and family’s well-being at risk.
Fortunately, strategic long-term care planning can protect your assets, preserve your independence, and relieve loved ones of emotional and financial burdens. Options range from traditional LTC insurance to hybrid products and annuity-based solutions—all designed to provide flexible care at home, in assisted living, or in skilled nursing facilities.
Estate Planning: The Foundation of Family Stewardship
Estate planning is more than just writing a will—it’s about ensuring your values, assets, and responsibilities are passed on in the manner you choose. Yet, too often, families face unnecessary stress, court delays, and costly probate proceedings because these essential documents are incomplete or outdated.
A well-structured estate plan includes tools such as wills, powers of attorney, advance medical directives, and increasingly, revocable living trusts. A revocable living trust not only avoids probate but also ensures continuity of financial management if you become incapacitated. It allows you to maintain control, reduce administrative costs, and distribute your assets privately and efficiently.
Unlike wills, trusts become effective the moment they’re signed and funded. This means that your hand-picked trustee can step in immediately—without waiting for court approval—to manage your affairs during a medical crisis or after death.
Take Action Before Year-End
As you prepare to close out 2025, we encourage you to take this time to review your financial and legal documents. Consider these questions:
- Have you protected your retirement from the costs of long-term care?
- Do you have a clear estate plan that aligns with your current life stage and wishes?
- Have you named guardians, trustees, and healthcare proxies you trust?
The answers to these questions shape more than your financial future—they shape your family’s peace of mind.
Let 2026 be the year your planning moves from intention to implementation. Partner with Foundational Wealth Partners to take the next step in securing your legacy with clarity, confidence, and compassion.
Wishing you a season of reflection and readiness,
The Foundational Wealth Partners Team
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