New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

What Academy Sports and Outdoors Employees Should Know About Caring for Aging Parents

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Academy Sports and Outdoors Academy Sports and Outdoors employs various healthcare providers for its employees, with UnitedHealthcare being one of the prominent insurers offering plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. Given the company's extensive workforce, they seek competitive healthcare solutions that cater to the diverse needs of their employees across different states. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As the landscape of healthcare costs evolves, 2026 is poised to bring significant challenges for consumers, particularly those enrolled in ACA plans. Experts anticipate sharp premium increases, with some states experiencing hikes exceeding 60%, primarily due to the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies and rising medical costs. The Kaiser Family Foundation warns that without legislative action, roughly 22 million marketplace enrollees could see their out-of-pocket costs soar by over 75%. This perfect storm of factors not only threatens affordability but also exacerbates access to vital healthcare services for millions. Click here to learn more

'Many Academy Sports and Outdoors employees underestimate how caregiving responsibilities may influence their long-term planning. To prepare thoughtfully and involve the right professionals, it's important to start these conversations early.' — Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Many Academy Sports and Outdoors employees face unexpected pressure when aging parent responsibilities arise. I believe early planning and open family communication can help households navigate these challenges with greater clarity.' — Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

Key warning signs that aging parents may need additional support.
Essential legal and health care preparations to help families stay organized.
How to coordinate family involvement and emotional readiness during caregiving.

Many Academy Sports and Outdoors employees in their mid-50s to early 60s come to discover that their retirement planning may have to expand to include the needs of their aging parents. As America’s population grows older, adult children frequently take on caregiving responsibilities for parents facing health issues, financial weaknesses, and cognitive decline. These realities influence family dynamics, investments, estate planning, taxes, and emotional well-being.

“Your parents' financial vulnerabilities become your financial stress unless you plan ahead and take a proactive role,” explains Brent Wolf, CFP®, an advisor at Wealth Enhancement.

Below are key considerations for individuals ages 55 to 65 who are preparing to support elderly parents.

1. Recognize the Early Signs of Cognitive Decline

For many families, cognitive decline in an aging parent typically appears gradually. Early warning signs may include:

- Repeatedly forgetting conversations
- Missing or duplicating bill payments
- Confusion about routine transactions
- Financial decisions influenced by new “friends”
- Unusual wire transfers or unexpected spending changes

Your role is not to diagnose—your role is to observe and speak up early. By addressing concerns promptly, you, your family, and your advisory team can potentially help mitigate the risk of future financial or cognitive harm.

2. Put Durable Power of Attorney and a Trusted Contact in Place

If a parent becomes cognitively impaired without a durable power of attorney, families often face a costly, lengthy conservatorship process. Academy Sports and Outdoors employees can address this by planning ahead.

Consider getting the following key documents in place:

- A trusted contact authorization
- Durable Power of Attorney for finances
- HIPAA releases and health care power of attorney
- Updated beneficiary designations, wills, and trusts

These steps can help reduce uncertainty and lessen the risk of financial exploitation should a parent become more vulnerable.

3. Prepare for Health Care Shock: Medicare Has Gaps

Many households are surprised by how much Medicare does not cover. Common out-of-pocket costs include:

- Long-term custodial care (memory care, assisted living, in-home support)
- Prescription drugs
- Private caregivers and care managers
- Out-of-pocket deductibles and co-pays

To plan effectively, Academy Sports and Outdoors employees should understand:

- What your parents’ insurance covers
- Their likely care expenses
- Whether self-funding or long-term care strategies may fit
- Whether Medicaid planning (with its five-year look-back) should begin early

Health care decisions become more urgent if cognitive decline is a concern.

4. Guard Your Parents Against Financial Abuse

Financial abuse is a growing threat for older adults—including parents of Academy Sports and Outdoors employees. Common scams include:

- Romance schemes
- Fake IRS, FedEx, or government calls
- “Grandchild in trouble” scams
- Caregiver misconduct
- Pressure from acquaintances or distant relatives
- Fraudulent investment pitches

Adult children often hesitate to intervene, but silence can increase risk. Advisors can help monitor accounts, identify unusual activity, and place temporary holds when needed.

5. Organize the “Invisible” Parts of Their Financial Life

By age 80, even financially experienced parents may struggle to keep up with routine obligations such as:

- Required minimum distributions
- Quarterly tax payments
- Charitable documentation
- Insurance renewals
- Online passwords
- Property tax deadlines
- Portfolio withdrawal planning

Advisors can help reduce errors by automating tasks, consolidating accounts, and simplifying processes.

6. Bring the Entire Family Into the Conversation Early

The most challenging situations often arise when adult children learn of issues only after a crisis. Academy Sports and Outdoors employees may benefit from:

- Annual family meetings
- Clear conversations about parents’ wishes
- Defined caregiving and financial roles
- Discussions around independence and dignity

Proactive communication may helps mitigate conflict and avoid last-minute decisions during emergencies.

7. Prepare Yourself Emotionally and Financially

Caring for aging parents can influence:

- Retirement timing
- Your ability to continue working
- Your cash flow
- Your mental and emotional resilience

Advisors can help you develop:

- A dedicated “parent care fund”
- Tax-efficient withdrawal strategies
- Cash flow outlines that factor in elder care
- Estate plans that reflect multigenerational needs

With thoughtful planning, supporting your parents does not have to disrupt your retirement goals—even for Academy Sports and Outdoors employees navigating complex benefits.

8. Build a Team-Based Approach

Families caring for elderly parents often benefit from a coordinated team that may include:

- A financial advisor
- An attorney with experience working with seniors
- Tax specialist
- Geriatric care manager
- Estate planning attorney
- Health care advocates

Working together, these professionals can help manage risk for both parents and adult children through a unified strategy.

Conclusion

Aging is inevitable—but it does not have to create chaos. Early planning, while parents are still capable, can lessen emotional strain, help minimize family conflict, and ideally reduce the likelihood of financial harm.

“The best gift you can give your aging parents is structure, clarity, and a financial advocate who supports them when they can no longer support themselves,” says Brent Wolf.

For Academy Sports and Outdoors employees ages 55 to 65, now is the time to act.

Taking the Next Step

The Retirement Group can help you design a Parent Care Plan that includes financial oversight, health care review, legal preparation, and fraud monitoring.

To speak with a team member who can guide you through each stage of the process, call (800) 900-5867 .

We are here to support you, your parents, and your family through every stage of life.

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

Sources:

1. Alzheimer’s Association. “10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia.” Alzheimer’s Association , 2025, www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs .

2. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. “Long-Term Care.” Medicare.gov , n.d., www.medicare.gov/coverage/long-term-care .

3. Federal Bureau of Investigation. “Elder Fraud.” FBI , U.S. Department of Justice, n.d., www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/elder-fraud .

What type of retirement savings plan does Academy Sports and Outdoors offer to its employees?

Academy Sports and Outdoors offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Is there an employer match for the 401(k) plan at Academy Sports and Outdoors?

Yes, Academy Sports and Outdoors provides an employer match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.

How can employees at Academy Sports and Outdoors enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan at Academy Sports and Outdoors through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What is the eligibility requirement for Academy Sports and Outdoors employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Most employees at Academy Sports and Outdoors are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service.

Can employees at Academy Sports and Outdoors take loans against their 401(k) accounts?

Yes, Academy Sports and Outdoors allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) accounts, subject to the plan’s terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in the Academy Sports and Outdoors 401(k) plan?

The 401(k) plan at Academy Sports and Outdoors offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.

Does Academy Sports and Outdoors allow for hardship withdrawals from the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Academy Sports and Outdoors permits hardship withdrawals from the 401(k) plan under certain circumstances as defined by the plan.

What is the vesting schedule for employer contributions at Academy Sports and Outdoors?

The vesting schedule for employer contributions at Academy Sports and Outdoors is outlined in the 401(k) plan documents, typically based on years of service.

How often can employees change their contributions to the Academy Sports and Outdoors 401(k) plan?

Employees at Academy Sports and Outdoors can change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan during designated enrollment periods or as permitted by the plan.

What resources are available for Academy Sports and Outdoors employees to learn more about their 401(k) plan?

Academy Sports and Outdoors provides resources such as informational seminars, online tools, and access to financial advisors to help employees understand their 401(k) plan.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Academy Sports and Outdoors has announced a restructuring plan involving a reduction in workforce across various departments. The company is also implementing changes to their benefits package, including adjustments to health insurance coverage and 401(k) matching contributions.

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for Academy Sports and Outdoors employees

For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Academy Sports and Outdoors at 1800 North Mason Road Katy, TX 77449; or by calling them at (281) 646-5200.