What Deckers Outdoor Employees Should Know About Caring for Aging Parents
Healthcare Provider Update: Provides health insurance through Kaiser, Anthem Blue Cross, and HMSA, with options including PPO, HDHP with HSA, and EPO plans4.
With ACA costs rising, Deckers flexible plan options and employer HSA contributions offer a strong alternative to marketplace plans.
Click here to learn more
'Many Deckers Outdoor 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 Deckers Outdoor 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 Deckers Outdoor 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. Deckers Outdoor 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, Deckers Outdoor 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 Deckers Outdoor 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. Deckers Outdoor 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 Deckers Outdoor 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 Deckers Outdoor 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.
What is the 401(k) plan offered by Deckers Outdoor?
The 401(k) plan at Deckers Outdoor is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.
How can employees of Deckers Outdoor enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees can enroll in the Deckers Outdoor 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does Deckers Outdoor offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?
Yes, Deckers Outdoor offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees grow their retirement savings.
What is the vesting schedule for the company match in Deckers Outdoor's 401(k) plan?
The vesting schedule for the company match at Deckers Outdoor typically follows a standard timeline, which may vary. Employees should refer to the plan documents for specific details.
Can employees of Deckers Outdoor change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to the Deckers Outdoor 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.
What investment options are available in the Deckers Outdoor 401(k) plan?
The Deckers Outdoor 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.
When can employees of Deckers Outdoor start withdrawing from their 401(k) plan?
Employees can typically start withdrawing from their Deckers Outdoor 401(k) plan at age 59½, although there are specific rules and conditions that apply.
Are loans available against the 401(k) balance at Deckers Outdoor?
Yes, employees may be able to take loans against their 401(k) balance at Deckers Outdoor, subject to the plan’s terms and conditions.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Deckers Outdoor?
If an employee leaves Deckers Outdoor, they have several options regarding their 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it with Deckers Outdoor.
How does Deckers Outdoor communicate changes to the 401(k) plan?
Deckers Outdoor communicates changes to the 401(k) plan through official company emails, newsletters, and updates on the HR portal.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Deckers Outdoor Employee Pension Plan
Name of Pension Plan: Deckers Outdoor Corporation Pension Plan
Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees generally need at least 5 years of service to qualify for benefits. Age qualifications typically align with standard retirement ages (e.g., 65 years old).
Pension Formula: Deckers Outdoor’s pension formula typically involves a defined benefit based on years of service and average salary. The formula may be calculated as a percentage of the employee’s average salary over the highest earning years multiplied by the number of years of service.
Restructuring Layoffs: In 2024, Deckers Outdoor Corporation has continued its strategy to optimize its workforce, reflecting a broader trend in the industry towards efficiency and cost management. Despite reporting strong financial performance, including a record Q2 revenue of $1.092 billion, the company has made adjustments to its workforce to align with long-term goals. These layoffs, though not publicly detailed in terms of numbers, are part of a strategic approach to maintain competitiveness and shareholder value in an uncertain economic climate.
For Deckers Outdoor, the company offers both stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its employee compensation package. Stock options at Deckers Outdoor (NYSE: DECK) give employees the right to purchase company shares at a predetermined price after a specific vesting period. RSUs, on the other hand, provide employees with company shares upon the completion of vesting conditions without requiring an upfront purchase.
In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Deckers Outdoor has continued to utilize these equity compensation tools to attract and retain top talent. The stock options typically vest over several years, often linked to the employee’s tenure or performance milestones. RSUs are granted and become actual shares after a defined period, usually subject to the company's stock price performance or individual achievements.
Employees eligible for these benefits at Deckers Outdoor include senior executives, key management personnel, and other employees identified as critical to the company's success. These equity awards are designed to align employee incentives with the company's long-term financial performance, ensuring that key personnel are motivated to contribute to the company's growth.
Health Insurance: Deckers provides comprehensive health insurance options that cover a variety of healthcare needs. This includes medical, dental, and vision coverage. The company also offers Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to help employees manage their healthcare expenses more effectively.
Mental Health Support: Recognizing the importance of mental well-being, Deckers offers free memberships to Headspace for all employees, along with an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that provides mental health support. Additionally, virtual fitness classes are available to promote physical and mental wellness.
For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Deckers Outdoor at 250 Coromar Dr Goleta, CA 93117; or by calling them at (805) 967-7611.
-2.png?width=300&height=200&name=office-builing-main-lobby%20(52)-2.png)
.webp?width=300&height=200&name=office-builing-main-lobby%20(27).webp)
-2.png)
.webp)