Should Tenneco Employees Embrace Extended Careers Beyond 62

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Tenneco Tenneco employs various healthcare providers, depending on the specific insurance plan they offer their employees. Typically, Tenneco provides access to well-known national health insurers, ensuring a broad network of healthcare options for their workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases for Tenneco in 2026 As Tenneco looks towards 2026, employees should brace for significant healthcare cost increases due to various factors. With rising medical costs and the potential expiration of enhanced federal subsidies from the ACA, many employees may see their out-of-pocket expenses grow considerably. Employers, including Tenneco, are likely to shift more costs onto their workforce, with a Mercer survey indicating that over half of U.S. companies plan to raise deductibles and other cost-sharing mechanisms. This perfect storm of increased premiums and cost-shifting could lead to substantial financial pressure on households trying to maintain adequate health coverage. Click here to learn more

Recent research indicates that fewer workers expect to continue full-time employment past the typical retirement age, a concerning trend for retirement fund sustainability in the US. Tenneco, like many companies, are likely impacted by this as the Employee Benefit Research Institute identifies 62 as the median retirement age in the United States. The often-advised strategy of extending careers to counter insufficient retirement savings is being challenged by this shift.

A study by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York highlights a significant shift in job expectations post-pandemic. As of early 2024, only 46% of employees envisioned working full-time beyond the age of 62, down from 55% before the COVID-19 outbreak.  This trend spans various demographics, impacting age groups, income brackets, and educational backgrounds, with a notable decline among women.

While the survey did not delve into the reasons behind this change, researchers suggest several factors, including a growing preference for part-time work, increases in household wealth, more confidence in financial futures, shifts in workplace culture, and uncertainties about life expectancy.

These evolving workforce expectations have profound implications, especially for addressing the nation's retirement savings shortfall. The Pew Charitable Trusts project a deficit that could cost federal and state governments approximately $1.3 trillion between 2021 and 2040. BlackRock CEO Larry Fink, in his annual shareholder letter, highlighted the necessity of integrating older workers for longer durations to tackle this issue.

Moreover, funding Social Security remains a critical concern. The Social Security Trustees' latest annual report warns that the retirement trust fund will be depleted by 2033.  Proposed measures include raising the full retirement age from 67 to 68 for those born in 1960 or later, a strategy expected to bridge only 12% of the financial gap. Although this approach reduces benefits, it is seen as a feasible political solution.

The perspective of John Rekenthaler, a sixty-three-year-old vice president of research at Morningstar, embodies the broader sentiment among those who may find full-time work challenging, often due to health issues. His experiences reflect the human side of these broad economic trends.

For Tenneco, the challenge is balancing the expansion of employment opportunities for older workers with the systemic issues of retirement planning and Social Security sustainability. As workforce dynamics evolve, merely prolonging careers may not fully address the retirement savings dilemma, necessitating a broader review of corporate policies and legislative actions.

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Many companies recognize the value of mature employees' contributions, with trends towards delaying retirement gaining traction. A 2022 AARP survey noted that employers value individuals aged 60 and above for their expertise and reliability, leading over 60% of top companies, including Tenneco, to develop targeted programs. These initiatives often include flexible working conditions, mentorship roles, and tasks that utilize their extensive industry knowledge, supporting a gradual transition into retirement.

Think of the changing retirement landscape as the final act of a play. Traditionally, employees would take their final bow at 62, concluding their tenure as full-time workers in a predictable manner. However, recent research suggests a different narrative is emerging. Older workers are increasingly considering extended careers, akin to an experienced actor choosing to stay on stage due to the audience's appreciation and their passion for the craft. A blend of their seasoned expertise, financial necessity, and personal choice is influencing this shift. Many are opting for an encore, transforming the conclusion of their careers.