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What MasTec Employees Should Know About Caring for Aging Parents

Healthcare Provider Update: MasTec, a leading provider in construction and engineering services, primarily utilizes Aetna as its healthcare provider for employee health plans. Looking ahead to 2026, MasTec employees may face significant healthcare cost increases. With expected sharp hikes in health insurance premiums, especially in states like New York where proposals suggest increases of up to 66%, employees should be prepared. The termination of enhanced federal ACA premium subsidies could exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to a staggering 75% increase in out-of-pocket costs for many. As employers navigate these challenges, it is likely that benefit adjustments, including higher deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums, may become commonplace to offset rising expenses. Click here to learn more

'Many MasTec 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 MasTec 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 MasTec 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. MasTec 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, MasTec 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 MasTec 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. MasTec 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 MasTec 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 MasTec 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 plan does MasTec offer to its employees?

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

Does MasTec provide a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, MasTec provides a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to specific limits.

At what age can MasTec employees start participating in the 401(k) plan?

MasTec employees can typically start participating in the 401(k) plan as soon as they meet eligibility requirements, usually upon hire.

What investment options are available in MasTec's 401(k) plan?

MasTec's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds, to suit different risk tolerances.

How can MasTec employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

MasTec employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Is there a minimum contribution amount required for MasTec's 401(k) plan?

MasTec may have a minimum contribution amount, which employees should verify in the plan documents or by contacting HR.

Can MasTec employees change their contribution percentage at any time?

Yes, MasTec employees can change their contribution percentage at any time, subject to the plan's rules and guidelines.

What happens to MasTec employees' 401(k) savings if they leave the company?

If MasTec employees leave the company, they can roll over their 401(k) savings to another retirement account or withdraw the funds, subject to tax implications.

Does MasTec offer loans against the 401(k) plan?

Yes, MasTec's 401(k) plan may allow employees to take loans against their savings, subject to specific terms and conditions.

Are there any fees associated with MasTec's 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with MasTec's 401(k) plan, which employees should review 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.

Name of Plan: MasTec, Inc. Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees are generally eligible for the pension plan after completing 5 years of service and reaching the age of 65. For early retirement, employees can start receiving benefits at age 55 with 10 years of service. Pension Formula: The pension benefit is calculated based on a formula that considers the number of years of service and average salary over a specified period, usually the highest-paid years. Name of Plan: MasTec, Inc. 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan upon completion of 30 days of service. Company Contributions: MasTec offers a matching contribution up to a certain percentage of the employee’s contribution.

Restructuring and Layoffs: MasTec announced a restructuring plan in early 2024 aimed at streamlining operations and reducing overhead costs. This plan included a reduction of around 8% of their workforce, particularly targeting roles that overlap in their newly consolidated departments. The company cited the need to adapt to changing market conditions and improve efficiency as primary reasons for this move. It is crucial to monitor these developments due to the current economic climate, which affects labor markets and corporate stability. Restructuring can impact not just the employees but also investors and the broader economy. Benefit Changes: Alongside the layoffs, MasTec has revised its employee benefits structure. The company has introduced a more flexible benefits package, including adjustments to health insurance premiums and modifications to retirement plan contributions. These changes are in response to evolving market demands and cost-management strategies. Staying informed about these adjustments is essential given the broader economic and political context, as such changes can influence employee satisfaction and retention, and reflect broader trends in corporate benefit management.

MasTec provides stock options and RSUs to employees as part of their compensation package. Stock options are often granted to executives and key employees, while RSUs are typically awarded based on performance and tenure. In 2022, MasTec's stock options and RSUs aimed to align employee interests with company performance.

Employee Benefits Overview: MasTec provides a comprehensive benefits package which typically includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, among other options. Healthcare Plans: They offer multiple health plan options including PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) and HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan) with HSA (Health Savings Account) compatibility. Wellness Programs: MasTec includes wellness programs and resources to support employees' physical and mental health.