New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

What Thermo Fisher Scientific Employees Should Know About Caring for Aging Parents

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Thermo Fisher Scientific Thermo Fisher Scientific does not operate as a healthcare provider in the traditional sense; rather, it is a leading global provider of laboratory equipment and healthcare solutions, primarily serving pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, and research institutions. The company's services range from the manufacture of laboratory supplies to offering analytical instruments and diagnostic reagents, thereby supporting healthcare providers in their missions. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As healthcare costs continue to climb, 2026 is anticipated to see significant premium increases for consumers, particularly within the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. With some states projecting hikes exceeding 60%, factors like the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies and escalating medical costs converge to challenge affordability. Reports indicate that without congressional intervention, approximately 92% of ACA policyholders may face a staggering rise of over 75% in out-of-pocket premiums. This financial strain underscores the urgent need for individuals to proactively navigate their healthcare options. Click here to learn more

'Many Thermo Fisher Scientific 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 Thermo Fisher Scientific 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 Thermo Fisher Scientific 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. Thermo Fisher Scientific 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, Thermo Fisher Scientific 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 Thermo Fisher Scientific 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. Thermo Fisher Scientific 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 Thermo Fisher Scientific 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 Thermo Fisher Scientific 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.

Featured Video

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 is the 401(k) plan offered by Thermo Fisher Scientific?

The 401(k) plan at Thermo Fisher Scientific is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or after-tax basis.

How does Thermo Fisher Scientific match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Thermo Fisher Scientific offers a company match on employee contributions, which helps to enhance the overall retirement savings of employees.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in Thermo Fisher Scientific's 401(k) plan?

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

Can employees at Thermo Fisher Scientific contribute to their 401(k) plan through payroll deductions?

Yes, employees at Thermo Fisher Scientific can contribute to their 401(k) plan through convenient payroll deductions, making it easy to save for retirement.

What investment options are available in Thermo Fisher Scientific's 401(k) plan?

Thermo Fisher Scientific's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals.

Is there a vesting schedule for the company match in Thermo Fisher Scientific's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Thermo Fisher Scientific has a vesting schedule for the company match, meaning employees must work for a certain number of years before they fully own the matching contributions.

How can employees at Thermo Fisher Scientific access their 401(k) account information?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the online portal provided by Thermo Fisher Scientific's plan administrator.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Thermo Fisher Scientific?

The maximum contribution limit for Thermo Fisher Scientific's 401(k) plan is subject to IRS guidelines, which can change annually.

Does Thermo Fisher Scientific offer a Roth 401(k) option?

Yes, Thermo Fisher Scientific offers a Roth 401(k) option, allowing employees to make after-tax contributions that can grow tax-free.

How often can employees at Thermo Fisher Scientific change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at Thermo Fisher Scientific can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at designated times throughout the year, typically during open enrollment or through specific plan provisions.

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

RSUs and stock options are provided as part of Thermo Fisher Scientific's compensation packages.