Retirement Risks: Hurricanes
Preparing for retirement doesn't just mean figuring out how much money you'll need- it also means being aware of the risks specific to where you'll choose to live. Hurricane Ian is a reminder that these risks can have a big impact on your quality o[...]
![FORT MYERS FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 29: Stedi Scuderi looks over her apartment after flood water ... [+] inundated it when Hurricane Ian passed through the area on September 29, 2022 in Fort Myers, Florida. The hurricane brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)Getty Images](/uploaded_images/ecc807fb6b3f60edf91085c737104745_1664817663.jpg)
Hurricane Ian is a powerful reminder of the importance of preparing for the risks of where we live in retirement. Planning for how much retirement will cost is important, but it is even more important to make sure we are prepared for the potential risks we may face. retirees need to be aware of the potential dangers in their retirement community and make sure they have a plan in place in case of an emergency.
There's no doubt that retirement planning is a tricky business. Markets are constantly fluctuating and our health can change at any time, making it difficult to know how to best prepare for the future. However, by being mindful of the risks involved and making adjustments to our investment strategies and spending habits accordingly, we can help ensure a more stable and secure retirement. Additionally, by staying healthy and taking steps to prevent or manage chronic health conditions, we can help preserve our own wellbeing and that of our loved ones.
retirees should take into account the risk of extreme weather and other natural disasters when choosing where to live. While many retirees envision a life of leisure and relaxation, it is important to be prepared for the worst. Those who live in hurricane-prone areas should be especially aware of the dangers that hurricanes can pose. By being prepared and knowing the risks, retirees can enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
There are many risk factors to consider when it comes to our health. Here are just three to keep in mind: diet, exercise and stress.
Natural Disasters Can Lead to Financial Risks
No one knows when a major climate event will happen, which is why it's important to have a financial plan in place. Whether it's a hurricane evacuation or a collapsed roof, these events can be costly. Having a rainy day fund can help cover the costs of temporary relocation, transportation, hotel, and home rental.
As the climate changes and severe weather events become more common, the cost of insurance is likely to increase. This could make it difficult or even impossible to get insurance in some areas, and not everything may be covered. For example, wind damage is often included in home insurance policies, but water damage from flooding may not be. Over time, this could reduce the value of homes and the wealth that can be passed down to future generations.
Is Your Retirement Community Ready for Risk?
It's important to choose a retirement community that can meet your unique needs. Make sure to do your research and find a community that has the resources to support seniors with medical, mobility, or cognitive impairments. Look for things like special shelters for older adults, transportation options, and staff who are trained to work with seniors. By planning ahead, you can ensure that you'll be able to enjoy your retirement years to the fullest.
Consider A Retirement Location That Adapts To Your Personal Health Conditions
As climate change leads to more extreme weather events, it is becoming increasingly important for people to be prepared. This is especially true for older adults, who are more likely to die in a natural disaster. There are many things that people can do to be prepared for a disaster, but those with mild to significant mobility or cognitive impairment may have difficulty navigating a safe exit. It is important for everyone to be aware of the potential risks and have a plan in place in case of an emergency.
![Rescuers help evacuate Suzanne Tomlinson, a resident who rode out the storm, as they carry her to a ... [+] waiting boat in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian on Florida's Pine Island in Lee County, Sunday, Oct. 2, 2022. The only bridge to the island is heavily damaged so it can only be reached by boat or air. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.](/uploaded_images/699bc8125fb7d53e72739d64b911e9b4_1664817664.jpg)
Without power or transportation, people with chronic health conditions may be at risk. This is especially true for older adults, who are more likely to live alone and may have difficulty coping without assistance. When communication and transportation systems fail, it is important to have a plan in place to check on loved ones and make sure they are safe.
With Hurricane Ian making headlines in Florida today, it's important to remember that natural disasters can strike anywhere in the world. From snow and ice storms in the northeast to heat waves and tornados in the Midwest, and wildfires and mudslides in the west, no one is immune from the forces of nature. Even in Canada, where Hurricane Fiona is currently wreaking havoc on the Maritimes, natural disasters can occur. It's important to be prepared for anything and everything, no matter where you live.
As we get older, it's important to think about how we will weather the storms of life - both literally and figuratively. While we can't control the weather, we can control how prepared we are for whatever comes our way. That's why it's so important to have a retirement plan that takes into account our personal resilience and the possible risks we face in our particular location.
