What Dover Employees Should Know About Caring for Aging Parents
Healthcare Provider Update: Dover Healthcare Provider Information:
Dover typically has partnerships with a range of healthcare providers, but the core partnership often includes healthcare networks and insurance plans like UnitedHealthcare, which offers a variety of coverage options for employees. In many cases, the specifics of the healthcare providers may depend on the region and the employees' selected insurance plans.
Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026:
As the landscape of healthcare financing evolves, 2026 is poised to bring significant premium hikes for Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance plans. Insurers are anticipating increases averaging 20% nationally, with some states reporting spikes over 60%. The expiration of enhanced federal subsidies is a critical driver behind the expected surge, potentially resulting in over 75% increases in out-of-pocket costs for many enrollees. This scenario creates a daunting challenge for consumers, as they navigate shifting financial responsibilities amidst rising medical costs. Planning and proactive health management in 2025 will be essential to mitigate the effects of these impending increases.
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'Many Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover 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. Dover 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, Dover 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 Dover 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. Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover 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 primary purpose of Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
The primary purpose of Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by offering tax-advantaged savings options.
How can employees enroll in Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can enroll in Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does Dover match employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, Dover offers a matching contribution to employee contributions made to the 401(k) Savings Plan, up to a certain percentage.
What types of contributions can employees make to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and may also have the option for catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older.
When can employees start contributing to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can start contributing to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan after completing the eligibility requirements, which are outlined in the plan documents.
What is the vesting schedule for Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
The vesting schedule for Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan determines how much of the company’s matching contributions employees are entitled to keep based on their years of service.
Can employees take loans against their 401(k) savings at Dover?
Yes, Dover allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the plan.
What investment options are available in Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts for Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can change their contribution amounts to Dover's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, subject to the plan's rules and regulations.
What resources are available to help employees manage their 401(k) at Dover?
Dover provides various resources, including access to financial advisors, educational materials, and online tools to help employees manage their 401(k) savings effectively.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Dover Corporation offers both pension plans and 401(k) plans to its employees as part of its commitment to attracting and retaining talent. The company's pension plan is structured as a defined benefit plan, where employees earn benefits based on their years of service and average salary. This plan ensures that upon retirement, employees receive regular payments, which are calculated according to a set formula based on tenure and earnings. For instance, long-serving employees may receive a higher percentage of their final average salary as a pension payment (Dover Corporation) (Dover Corporation).
Additionally, Dover Corporation provides a 401(k) plan that allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary toward retirement savings. The company typically matches a percentage of employee contributions, helping employees build their retirement funds over time. The 401(k) plan is flexible, allowing employees to choose between traditional pre-tax contributions or Roth after-tax contributions, depending on their financial planning preferences
Dover has recently undertaken a significant restructuring initiative aimed at optimizing its operational efficiency. In 2023, the company announced a series of layoffs as part of a broader strategy to streamline its operations and reduce costs. This move reflects a response to the current economic climate and aims to position Dover more competitively in a challenging market. It’s crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about such changes due to the ongoing economic uncertainties, which impact investment strategies, tax implications, and overall business performance
Dover Corporation provides stock options and RSUs as part of its employee compensation package. For 2022, employees were offered stock options and RSUs based on performance and tenure. In 2023 and 2024, Dover Corporation continued this practice, with updated plans and eligibility criteria.
1. Company’s Official Website
Dover Corporation Official Website: Check their careers or benefits section for details on health benefits.
URL: Dover Corporation Careers
2. Reliable Business and News Websites
Glassdoor: Employee reviews often include information on benefits.
URL: Glassdoor - Dover Corporation
Indeed: Look for employee reviews and benefit descriptions.
URL: Indeed - Dover Corporation
LinkedIn: Company profile and posts may have updates on employee benefits.
URL: LinkedIn - Dover Corporation
Yahoo Finance: Search for recent news articles that might include employee benefits information.
URL: Yahoo Finance - Dover Corporation
Reuters: Look for news or press releases related to employee benefits.
URL: Reuters - Dover Corporation
3. Industry and Financial Reports
S&P Global: Detailed financial reports might include benefits information.
URL: S&P Global - Dover Corporation
Bloomberg: Check for company-specific reports and news.
URL: Bloomberg - Dover Corporation
MarketWatch: Recent company news and benefits updates.
URL: MarketWatch - Dover Corporation
4. Healthcare News Websites
Healthcare Dive: Industry-specific updates that might affect Dover’s health benefits.
URL: Healthcare Dive
Modern Healthcare: Check for updates on benefits and healthcare policies.
URL: Modern Healthcare
5. Government and Regulatory Websites
U.S. Department of Labor: Benefits-related compliance information.
URL: DOL - Employee Benefits
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services: Look for any relevant updates affecting corporate health benefits.
URL: CMS
Summary of Findings
Healthcare-Related Terms and Acronyms: Common terms might include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), HSA (Health Savings Account), and EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
Recent Employee Healthcare News: Look for updates about changes in health plans, new benefits offerings, or cost adjustments affecting Dover employees.
For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Dover at 3005 Highland Pkwy, Suite 200 Downers Grove, IL 60515; or by calling them at (630) 541-1540.
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