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Understanding the Economic Shift: What Baby Boomers Mean for Encompass Health Employees Approaching Retirement

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Encompass Health Encompass Health Corporation operates as a leader in post-acute healthcare services, particularly offering rehabilitation services through a network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, outpatient rehabilitation clinics, and home health agencies. Their integrated care model emphasizes rehabilitation for patients recovering from illness or injury, including stroke recovery, brain injury rehabilitation, and orthopedic recovery. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, healthcare costs are anticipated to rise significantly, particularly for those enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. Factors such as the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies and escalating medical costs could result in premium hikes of over 60% in some states. Reports indicate that nearly 92% of ACA enrollees may face out-of-pocket premium increases exceeding 75%, driven by high utilization of medical services and significant drug costs. Consequently, consumers will need to navigate these changes carefully to manage their healthcare expenses effectively. Click here to learn more

The United States' demographic composition is changing dramatically as the baby boomer generation—those born between 1946 and 1964—reaches retirement age. According to the US Census Bureau, this group has already started to have a considerable impact on a number of economic sectors, and over the next few decades, its full impact is expected to become apparent.


The United States is preparing for what has been referred to as the 'peak burden' years of the baby boomer generation, when their combined retirement will place significant strain on the nation's economy and the resources of future generations. This shift in the population's composition is not the product of personal preference or decision, but rather of historical population trends that have caused a sizable portion of the population to reach retirement age at the same time.

This change has wide-ranging and significant effects impacting Encompass Health individuals and more. For example, senior economist Jonathan Millar at Barclays predicts that the economic drag resulting from an increasing number of retirees will continue for the next 20 years, hitting a tipping point around 2029 when almost all baby boomers will have retired. Economist Dean Baker, in a 1998 paper, compared this demographic phenomena to a 'population time bomb,' emphasizing the unavoidable economic strains, though not to the disastrous degree that some public discussions imply.

The housing market is one of the most obvious effects of the aging baby boomer generation. Due in large part to the fact that they make up a large amount of the housing supply, there are fewer properties available for other buyers, which has led to an increase in property prices. For millennials looking to buy larger homes fit for a family, this trend has proven especially difficult. The National Association of Realtors reports that 2023 was the worst year for home sales since 1995. This is partly because current homeowners are reluctant to downsize, frequently because of favorable mortgage rates or fully paid-off properties.


The baby boomer retirement wave is also having an impact on Encompass Health and the rest of the labor market. With more unfilled positions than available workers, the US is now experiencing a labor shortage, which is predicted to worsen as more baby boomers leave the workforce. Potential effects of this scarcity on the economy include inflation and wage pressure. Furthermore, the economy is naturally prone to inflation due to the retired boomers' ongoing demand for goods and services as they are not producing labor.

The changes in demographics also affect the stock market. The market's stability is at stake because a significant part of stock market ownership is held by people 55 and older, who are more likely to sell their stocks during economic downturns. Selling driven by demographics may increase market volatility and have an effect on consumers spending and the overall economy.

Possibly the most urgent issue pertaining to Encompass Health employees nearing retirement is how long Social Security will last. The Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund is expected to run out by 2033 due to boomers starting to get sizable Social Security benefits. This will force policymakers to make difficult choices about raising taxes, cutting expenditure, or increasing the national debt in order to pay for retiree benefits. The financial strain on present and future taxpayer generations is highlighted by this situation.

There is some hope that the United States won't experience a similar demographic crisis anytime soon, despite these obstacles. Despite their size, the millennial generation is followed by smaller generations, such as Gen Z and Alpha, which lessens the possibility of another 'time bomb' situation. Long-term demographic pressures on the economy may lessen, according to this prediction.

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In summary, the baby boomer generation's aging brings with it a wide range of opportunities and difficulties related to the economy. Although the short-term effects could put pressure on the housing, labor, stock, and social security systems, the long-term demographic patterns provide hope for stabilization. To ensure economic resilience in the face of major demographic shifts, addressing these issues will need for careful policy choices, creative solutions, and a team effort.

For baby boomers who are about to retire from Encompass Health, it is important to take into account the changing retirement planning environment, especially with regard to the trend of longer lifespans that require more extensive financial planning. According to a Stanford Center on Longevity study, people are living longer, healthier lives, which implies that many Encompass Health retirees will require retirement funds to last well into their 90s. The significance of strategic retirement planning, which takes into account factors like inflation, healthcare costs, and probable long-term care requirements, is highlighted by the longevity revolution. This is necessary to provide financial stability during these prolonged golden years (Stanford Center on Longevity, 2023).

It is like trying to guide a massive ocean liner through a small strait to navigate the economy as the baby boomer generation heads into retirement. Just as the captain must predict how the ship will affect the waterway, anticipating changes in the current and changing course accordingly, so too must individuals and policymakers predict the economic repercussions of a sizable portion of the population approaching retirement age. This demographic shift necessitates strategic planning and forethought since it affects housing availability, labor markets, stock stability, and Social Security sustainability. In order to assure easy sailing into the future for all generations, resolving the economic issues faced by the retiring baby boomers requires comprehensive preparation and inventive solutions, just like navigating perilous waters demands expertise, adaptability, and forward-thinking.

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Encompass Health?

The 401(k) plan offered by Encompass Health is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.

Does Encompass Health offer a matching contribution for the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Encompass Health offers a matching contribution to help employees maximize their retirement savings.

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

Employees can enroll in the Encompass Health 401(k) plan through the company's benefits portal during the enrollment period or after they become eligible.

What are the eligibility requirements for the Encompass Health 401(k) plan?

To be eligible for the Encompass Health 401(k) plan, employees typically need to meet certain criteria, such as completing a specified period of service.

Can employees make changes to their contributions in the Encompass Health 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can make changes to their contribution amounts in the Encompass Health 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.

What investment options are available in the Encompass Health 401(k) plan?

The Encompass Health 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

When can employees start withdrawing funds from their Encompass Health 401(k) plan?

Employees can start withdrawing funds from their Encompass Health 401(k) plan upon reaching the age of 59½, or under certain circumstances such as financial hardship.

Are there penalties for early withdrawal from the Encompass Health 401(k) plan?

Yes, there are typically penalties for early withdrawal from the Encompass Health 401(k) plan unless specific exceptions apply, such as disability or financial hardship.

What happens to an employee's Encompass Health 401(k) plan if they leave the company?

If an employee leaves Encompass Health, they can roll over their 401(k) balance into another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the plan if allowed.

How often does Encompass Health provide statements for the 401(k) plan?

Encompass Health provides regular statements for the 401(k) plan, typically on a quarterly basis, detailing account balances and investment performance.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Encompass Health offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes both a 401(k) plan and other retirement options. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Encompass Health continued to provide the Encompass Health Retirement Investment Plan, which allows employees to contribute up to 100% of their pay on a pre-tax basis, subject to IRS limits. The company matches 50% of the first 6% of employee contributions to the 401(k). There is also a Roth option available for those preferring post-tax contributions. Employees aged 50 or older are eligible for additional catch-up contributions​ (Encompass Health). In terms of eligibility for the 401(k) plan, all full-time and part-time benefit-eligible employees of Encompass Health can participate. The plan is administered by Charles Schwab Investments and offers a variety of mutual funds for investment. This is an employer-sponsored defined contribution plan​ (Encompass Health)​ (Encompass Health). Encompass Health employees also have access to an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), which allows them to purchase company stock at discounted rates through payroll deductions. Although this is a voluntary program, it provides a supplementary method for employees to invest in the company​
Restructuring and Layoffs: Encompass Health has recently undergone significant restructuring aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. In 2023, the company announced a series of layoffs affecting several departments to align with its strategic goals. This move is part of a broader trend in the healthcare sector to enhance operational efficiency amid economic pressures and rising costs. Importance: Given the current economic and investment climate, understanding these changes is crucial. The healthcare industry is adapting to economic uncertainties, and such restructuring efforts can have widespread impacts on employees and the overall market. Additionally, changes in company operations can influence investment decisions and tax implications.
Encompass Health offers stock options and RSUs to executives and key employees as part of their compensation package. These benefits are designed to align employee interests with the company's performance. Stock options allow employees to buy shares at a set price, while RSUs provide shares after certain conditions are met.
Encompass Health Careers: Check the company’s official careers page for specific details on health benefits. Encompass Health Benefits Information: Look for detailed benefits descriptions, plan options, and any recent updates in their employee benefits section. Glassdoor: Review employee reviews for insights on health benefits and any recent changes or updates. Indeed: Explore employee reviews and salary data, focusing on health benefits. LinkedIn: Look at company updates and posts that may include information on health benefits. Business Insider: Search for any articles related to employee benefits at Encompass Health. HR News Sites: Check specialized HR and benefits news websites for articles or reports on Encompass Health's employee health benefits. Healthcare-Related Terms and Acronyms: Health Savings Account (HSA): A tax-advantaged savings account used to pay for qualified medical expenses. Flexible Spending Account (FSA): An account that allows employees to use pre-tax dollars for eligible healthcare expenses. Co-Pay: A fixed amount paid by the insured for covered services. Deductible: The amount an employee pays out-of-pocket before insurance coverage begins. Premium: The amount paid for insurance coverage, typically monthly. Out-of-Pocket Maximum: The maximum amount an employee has to pay for covered services in a plan year.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Encompass Health at 9001 Liberty Parkway Birmingham, AL 35242; or by calling them at (205) 967-7116.

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