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Understanding the Shift: What 65-Year-Old Workers Mean for Belden's Future

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Healthcare Provider Update: Belden offers health, dental, and vision insurance, along with life and disability coverage. Employees benefit from a 401(k) retirement plan, stock purchase options, and paid time off. The company promotes a culture of inclusion and community engagement, with wellness programs and education assistance available. Beldens total rewards program is designed to support employees physical, financial, and emotional well-being3. Belden With ACA premiums projected to rise sharply in 2026, Beldens comprehensive benefits and inclusive culture help employees avoid the financial strain of marketplace plans. The companys emphasis on preventive care and wellness education further reduces long-term healthcare costs. Click here to learn more

In the modern world, the group of people who become 65 years old is undergoing a paradigm change that is denoting a reconfiguration of what this significant age has historically meant. With nearly 4.1 million Americans turning 65 this year, the number surpasses all prior records and is predicted to rise further until 2027. This is a historical high. This increase, or around 11,200 people a day, is in stark contrast to the 10,000 people a day average from the previous decade, indicating a substantial shift in the population.


This change has a wide range of effects on Belden individuals lifestyles, economic factors, and cultural conventions. The idea of retirement, which was formerly understood to mean giving up one's career, is drastically evolving. According to Pew Research Center data, about 20% of Americans 65 and older were still working in 2023—a number that has increased in the previous 35 years. This growth is a result of both economic necessity and the desire of this group to continue being active, contributing members of society. This age group's labor force involvement is defined by two trends: two thirds of them adhere to a full-time work schedule, and average hourly incomes have increased from an inflation-adjusted $13 in 1987 to $22 in 2023.

The financial environment that 65-year-olds face now has likewise changed significantly from what it did a generation ago. According to the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances, the median net worth of people 65 to 74 in 2022 will be $410,000, up 45% from 2010 after accounting for inflation. The issue of guaranteeing a sustainable income through retirement, however, is coupled with this economic buoyancy given the fall in traditional pension systems and the rising costs of long-term care.

Furthermore, compared to their counterparts from two decades earlier, a larger proportion of this age group adheres to the federal physical activity guidelines, demonstrating a strong dedication to maintaining an active lifestyle. It is expected that this commitment to physical health will lengthen life expectancy and lower the likelihood of developing chronic illnesses.


The social fabric of the 65-year-old age group is changing as well; since 1990, the divorce rate has significantly increased among this generation. This pattern points to a reassessment of interpersonal connections and living situations in later years, which reflects broader shifts in society perceptions of marriage and personal freedom.

Seeking something more than a conventional retirement is at the heart of the story of today's Belden professionals. This generation is more and more looking for jobs that allow them to give back to the community, whether it is through volunteer work or ongoing career involvement. The idea of leaving a legacy and the desire to have a long-lasting effect on society and the community are common themes among people going through this phase of life.

This demographic transition reflects a fundamental rethinking of the latter years, marked by greater lifespan, economic resilience, and a dedication to active, purposeful living. The experiences and goals of today's 65-year-olds highlight a larger shift in how society views aging and its potential, dispelling myths and opening up new avenues for meaningful engagement and contribution past the customary retirement age. This progression indicates a change in society values toward accepting the potential and difficulties of aging in the twenty-first century, in addition to reflecting the changing environment of work, health, and social interactions.

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An intriguing development in the retirement landscape is the increasing use of staggered retirement plans by organizations. With the help of these initiatives, senior workers can progressively cut back on their hours while mentoring junior staff members, making the transition to retirement easier. This strategy helps the companies transfer knowledge and maintain key experience while also helping the individuals, who can transition to retirement more gradually. According to a June 2023 research from the Society for Human Resource Management, these programs are becoming more and more well-liked as a calculated strategy for handling the retirement of the aging population, providing a mutually beneficial outcome for both businesses and employees.

For today's 65-year-olds, navigating Belden retirement is like cruising a luxurious yacht over unexplored oceans of affluence and longevity. Like a seasoned sailor using cutting-edge navigational aids to discover uncharted territory, contemporary  Belden retirees are using their money, health, and life experience to map out a path toward happy, active retirements. The state-of-the-art yacht, furnished with all the newest amenities, stands in for the opportunities and resources at their disposal, including investments that guarantee a comfortable journey and phased retirement plans. The huge ocean represents the possibility of new endeavors, ongoing professional involvement, and personal development. Today's retirees are meticulously planning to handle the financial and social adjustments that come with retirement, just as the yacht crew prepares for every eventuality. This way, their journey is about more than simply reaching their goal; it's about enjoying the voyage itself.

What is the primary purpose of Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The primary purpose of Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.

How can employees enroll in Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can enroll in Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan by accessing the benefits portal or contacting the HR department for guidance on the enrollment process.

What types of contributions can employees make to Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and may also be eligible for employer matching contributions in Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan.

Is there a company match for contributions made to Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Belden offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

What is the vesting schedule for employer contributions in Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The vesting schedule for employer contributions in Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which means employees earn ownership of the contributions over a specified period.

Can employees change their contribution percentage at Belden?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, usually through the benefits portal or by contacting HR.

What investment options are available in Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Belden'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.

At what age can employees begin to withdraw from Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan without penalties?

Employees can begin to withdraw from Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan without penalties at age 59½, provided they meet other plan requirements.

What happens to an employee's 401(k) balance if they leave Belden?

If an employee leaves Belden, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, withdraw the funds, or leave the balance in the plan if allowed.

Does Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan allow loans against the account?

Yes, Belden's 401(k) Savings Plan may allow employees to take loans against their account balance, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined 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.
In 2024, Belden announced a significant restructuring plan, which includes layoffs and the consolidation of some manufacturing operations. The company is aiming to streamline its operations and reduce costs amid challenging market conditions. This restructuring involves a substantial reduction in workforce, with a focus on optimizing production and supply chain processes.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Belden at 1 North Brentwood Blvd St. Louis, MO 63105; or by calling them at +1 314-854-8000.

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