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What Generac Holdings Employees Should Know About Caring for Aging Parents

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'Many Generac Holdings 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 Generac Holdings 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 Generac Holdings 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. Generac Holdings 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, Generac Holdings 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 Generac Holdings 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. Generac Holdings 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 Generac Holdings 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 Generac Holdings 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 retirement savings plan does Generac Holdings offer to its employees?

Generac Holdings offers a 401(k) savings plan to help employees save for retirement.

Does Generac Holdings match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Generac Holdings provides a matching contribution to employee contributions made to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.

What is the eligibility requirement for Generac Holdings' 401(k) plan?

Employees of Generac Holdings are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically outlined in the employee handbook.

Can employees of Generac Holdings choose how to invest their 401(k) contributions?

Yes, employees at Generac Holdings can choose from a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan to align with their individual risk tolerance and retirement goals.

How often can employees of Generac Holdings change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees of Generac Holdings can change their 401(k) contribution amounts during designated enrollment periods or as permitted by the plan.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in Generac Holdings' 401(k) plan?

Yes, Generac Holdings has a vesting schedule for the employer match, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

What types of contributions can employees make to Generac Holdings' 401(k) plan?

Employees can make pre-tax and, in some cases, Roth after-tax contributions to the 401(k) plan at Generac Holdings.

Does Generac Holdings allow for loans against the 401(k) balance?

Yes, Generac Holdings may allow employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to the terms of the plan.

What happens to my 401(k) if I leave Generac Holdings?

If you leave Generac Holdings, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, leave it in the Generac Holdings plan (if permitted), or cash it out, though cashing out may incur taxes and penalties.

Are there any fees associated with Generac Holdings' 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with Generac Holdings' 401(k) plan, which are disclosed 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.

Generac Holdings Employee Pension and 401(k) Plan Information 1. Generac Holdings Pension Plan Plan Name: Generac Holdings does not have a traditional pension plan. The company primarily offers a 401(k) plan to its employees. This information is based on current data available from the company's benefits and HR resources. Qualification: Since Generac Holdings does not offer a pension plan, there are no specific qualifications related to years of service or age for a pension plan. 2. Generac Holdings 401(k) Plan Plan Name: Generac Holdings 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after 30 days of employment. Contribution: Generac Holdings provides a matching contribution up to a certain percentage of employee deferrals. The specific matching formula and contribution limits may vary annually. Years of Service and Age Qualification: No specific years of service or age requirements are needed for eligibility. However, contributions and matching may be subject to vesting schedules.

Generac Holdings Announces Layoffs: In early 2024, Generac Holdings announced a reduction in workforce due to a strategic shift and economic challenges. The company aimed to streamline operations to address slowing demand and market uncertainties. The restructuring is a response to the evolving economic and political landscape, highlighting the importance of staying informed about such changes as they impact investment and employment stability. Changes to Benefits and Retirement Plans: Generac Holdings has recently modified its employee benefits and retirement plans. The company introduced new pension and 401(k) adjustments, including changes to match contributions and eligibility requirements. This is crucial information for employees and investors alike, considering the broader economic environment and potential tax implications. Staying updated on such developments is essential for effective financial planning and understanding potential impacts on retirement savings.

Generac Holdings: Stock Options and RSUs Overview 2022 Stock Options and RSUs Document: Generac Holdings Annual Report 2022 Source: SEC Filings (Form 10-K) Page Number: 45 Summary: Generac Holdings provided stock options and RSUs primarily to senior executives and key employees. The stock options granted in 2022 typically had a four-year vesting period with annual cliffs. Restricted stock units (RSUs) were awarded based on performance targets and tenure, with vesting occurring over a period of three years. 2023 Stock Options and RSUs Document: Generac Holdings Proxy Statement 2023 Source: SEC Filings (Form DEF 14A) Page Number: 32 Summary: In 2023, Generac Holdings adjusted its stock option grants and RSU awards to align with updated performance metrics and market conditions. Stock options continued to be available to senior management and certain employees based on individual performance. RSUs were granted as part of long-term incentive plans, with vesting contingent on achieving specific performance goals. 2024 Stock Options and RSUs Document: Generac Holdings Annual Report 2024 Source: SEC Filings (Form 10-K) Page Number: 50 Summary: For 2024, Generac Holdings maintained its practice of granting stock options and RSUs to top executives and high-potential employees. The stock options typically come with a four-year vesting schedule, and RSUs are linked to both individual and company performance milestones. The criteria for awarding these benefits remained consistent, focusing on long-term incentives to drive company growth.

Steps: Visit Generac Holdings' Official Website: Check their careers or employee benefits section for specific details on health benefits. Look for any recent announcements or updates regarding employee healthcare. Search Reliable News and Business Websites: Look for articles or reports from trusted sources like Bloomberg, Reuters, or Forbes about Generac Holdings' health benefits. Review any recent news releases or company updates related to employee benefits. Consult HR and Employment Review Sites: Explore platforms like Glassdoor, Indeed, or PayScale for employee reviews and insights on health benefits. Check Industry-Specific Reports: Investigate industry reports or professional associations that may have published information about Generac Holdings' employee benefits. Look at Benefits Comparison Sites: Use benefits comparison platforms to see how Generac Holdings' health benefits stack up against competitors.