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What Agilent Technologies Employees Should Know About Caring for Aging Parents

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Agilent Technologies Agilent Technologies typically partners with major health insurance providers to facilitate healthcare services for its employees. As of now, specific details about Agilent Technologies' current provider are not clearly documented in public records. However, Agilent has been known to utilize a mix of regional providers and larger national insurance companies, providing employees with access to comprehensive healthcare plans. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we look ahead to 2026, substantial healthcare cost increases are projected, with some marketplaces experiencing hikes of over 60%. This rise is fueled by a convergence of factors, including escalating medical expenses and the possible expiration of enhanced federal subsidies associated with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Experts warn that, without congressional intervention, the majority of marketplace enrollees could face exorbitant out-of-pocket costs, with some premiums surging by 75%. The landscape indicates a significant challenge for Agilent Technologies and its employees, as rising healthcare costs threaten to place an additional financial burden on both employers and workers. Click here to learn more

'Many Agilent Technologies 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 Agilent Technologies 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 Agilent Technologies 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. Agilent Technologies 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, Agilent Technologies 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 Agilent Technologies 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. Agilent Technologies 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 Agilent Technologies 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 Agilent Technologies 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.

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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 Agilent Technologies offer to its employees?

Agilent Technologies offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

Does Agilent Technologies provide a company match for its 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Agilent Technologies provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps enhance retirement savings.

What is the eligibility requirement for Agilent Technologies' 401(k) plan?

Employees of Agilent Technologies are typically eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a certain period of service, usually within the first year of employment.

How can employees of Agilent Technologies enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of Agilent Technologies can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the human resources department for assistance.

What investment options are available in Agilent Technologies' 401(k) plan?

Agilent Technologies offers a variety of investment options in its 401(k) plan, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles tailored to different risk levels.

Can employees of Agilent Technologies change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees of Agilent Technologies can change their contribution percentage at any time, typically through the benefits portal or by contacting HR.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Agilent Technologies' 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Agilent Technologies' 401(k) plan follows the IRS guidelines, which are updated annually. Employees should refer to the latest IRS limits for specifics.

Does Agilent Technologies allow for catch-up contributions in its 401(k) plan?

Yes, Agilent Technologies allows eligible employees who are 50 years or older to make catch-up contributions to their 401(k) plan, in accordance with IRS regulations.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Agilent Technologies?

If an employee leaves Agilent Technologies, they have several options regarding their 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it with Agilent Technologies.

Are loans available from Agilent Technologies' 401(k) plan?

Yes, Agilent Technologies may allow employees to take loans from their 401(k) accounts, subject to certain conditions and limits outlined in the plan documents.

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

This news is crucial for employees and investors as it reflects Agilent's response to ongoing market challenges and macroeconomic conditions. The restructuring aims to reduce costs by $80 million annually, affecting all business segments. Understanding these changes is essential in the context of the current economic environment and the company's future growth strategies https://www.medtechdive.com/news/agilent-layoffs-400-workers-site-closures/703299/ https://www.labpulse.com/business-insights/trends-and-finance/article/15660806/agilent-technologies-to-cut-jobs-close-facilities-in-restructuring-plan

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Agilent Technologies at 5301 Stevens Creek Boulevard Santa Clara, CA 95051; or by calling them at (408) 345-8886.