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Consolidated Edison Employees Discover the Joys of Camping: A Comprehensive Guide to Embracing Nature in Retirement

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Consolidated Edison: Consolidated Edison (Con Edison) primarily utilizes Empire BlueCross BlueShield as its healthcare provider for employee health insurance plans. This offers a range of services including medical, pharmaceutical, and behavioral health benefits for its employees and their families. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases for Consolidated Edison in 2026: As the healthcare landscape changes, Consolidated Edison faces potential challenges with rising health insurance premiums expected in 2026. Experts predict that without the continuation of enhanced federal subsidies, individuals enrolled in ACA marketplace plans may see premium increases exceeding 75%. This surge is driven by escalating medical costs, including hospital and drug prices, which are increasing faster than overall inflation. With major insurers seeking double-digit rate hikes and a significant number of enrollees expected to face higher out-of-pocket costs, Consolidated Edison employees may need to prepare for heightened financial pressures related to their healthcare coverage in the upcoming year. Click here to learn more

Camping is a great way to unplug and find some health benefits, especially if you are a retiree from a Consolidated Edison company looking to add some meaning to your golden years,'' says Patrick Ray of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.


The increase in camping among senior Consolidated Edison employees shows that the escape to nature is a growing trend among older individuals as a way to improve their health,'' notes Michael Corgiat from The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

1. Increasing Population of Elderly Americans Who Enjoy Camping:  Describing the growing trend of camping among the elderly and why they are attracted to outdoor activities.

2. The Health Benefits of Outdoor Activities:  Disclosing the physical and psychological benefits to seniors engaging in camping and similar activities.


3. Camping for Seniors:  Different Types of Camping – From Basic to Luxurious Glamping for Different Levels of Comfort and Budget.

John Muir, the naturalist, in 1909 said, “Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home, that wildness is a necessity, and parks are fountains of life” this captures the spirit of outdoor exploration perfectly.
 This attitude is still present more than a century later especially among the elderly population who are happy to answer the call of the wild.

The number of elderly Americans who go camping has increased significantly, and there are many different reasons why they choose to spend time in nature.
 10% of Baby Boomer’s camping vacations in North America in 2022 according to Statista, increased this age category’s participation since 2015. It is the same whether it is the satisfaction of hearing an alligator in the Everglades or a grizzly bear in Yellowstone, these veteran travelers find comfort and excitement in nature.  The Consolidated Edison retirees are also a part of this trend, and they are finding a new kind of rejuvenation and adventure in the outdoors.

The health benefits of outdoor activities

According to Peter James, an environmental epidemiologist at Harvard, it is clear that humans heal better from the stress in natural environments and that is where humans are supposed to be.
 These environments help in the physical as well as the mental relaxation, thus meaning that people should engage in outdoor activities. This is something that can be very useful for Consolidated Edison employees who have spent many years in demanding positions and may therefore benefit from the calm and physical activities that camping offers.

Things You Need to Take Camping

The market has a large selection of products that are intended to enhance the comfort and convenience of people who are planning to go camping in an RV or a tent. Marcia Cohen of Madison, Wisconsin, who is 67, explains how she used camping as a positive way of rehabilitation after she had her knee replaced.
 What makes her camping trip fun and empowering is her basics – a portable commode, a comfy cot, and a CORE six-person quick tent. The retirees of Consolidated Edison companies can get an idea of this and make sure that they have the right equipment for camping that will make them comfortable.

The Price of Camping

Camping is another affordable vacation option. Senior citizens 65 years and older can camp in Florida state parks for as low as $8 per night, a significant discount from the usual fees. The cost of RV camping varies by location and facilities and typically starts at $30 and goes up to $45 per night.
 Boondocking, or free camping in the wild, is an option that saves money for tourists while allowing them to enjoy the outdoors. These economical options can be taken advantage of by Consolidated Edison retirees to enjoy nature without spending a lot of money.

Where to Set Up Camp

There are many camping locations in the US that are suitable for experienced campers. These locations provide a variety of experiences for all interests, including the historical ambience of Yellowstone National Park, the scenic beauty of Yosemite and the bio-diversity of the Great Smoky Mountains.
 Every park has something special to offer, from spectacular climbs in Yosemite to wildlife safaris in Yellowstone, every visit is unforgettable. These destinations can be explored by Consolidated Edison employees to find the perfect spot for their next adventure.

Alternatives to Conventional Camping


Glamping is a more sophisticated way of camping that could suit someone who wants a more luxurious experience.  This glamorous version of camping offers home comforts in beautiful surroundings. The glamping sites provide the best of the two worlds between luxury and nature with features like toilets, electricity and luxurious furnishings. Glamping can be a great option for Consolidated Edison retirees who want a comfortable camping experience with nature.

In Summary

Whether you decide to go camping in the traditional way or choose the more extravagant glamping, older people are able to get a revitalising break. It is a way of getting back to nature, exercising and benefiting from the positive effects of being outdoors for your mental health.
 If you are looking to add some adventure and peace to your retirement years, then camping is still a realistic and rewarding option, with a number of ideas to suit different levels of mobility and comfort. Camping is a way for Consolidated Edison retirees to enjoy health, happiness and incredible experiences in their retirement.

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Sources:

1. Hoffman, Robert. 'Five Reasons Why Slow Travel is Great in Retirement.' Kiplinger, March 31, 2024, www.kiplinger.com/features. In this article, the author discusses the advantages of slow travel in retirement, including its positive impact on mental health, finances, and the travel experience, making it a perfect leisure activity for retirees who want to make the most out of their trips.


'Retire Early for Adventure: Go Travel and Volunteer.' Kiplinger, www.kiplinger.com. This piece outlines the benefits of combining travel with volunteering in retirement, giving retirees a chance to have an adventure, learn something new, and help others, which makes for a fulfilling retirement.


'What Is It Like to Own an RV in Retirement?' Kiplinger, www.kiplinger.com. This article gives a full account of the RV experience for retirees, discussing the liberation it provides, the social network within RV communities, and the logistics of living in a vehicle.


'11 Reasons to Retire in an RV.' Kiplinger, www.kiplinger.com. This source lists different advantages of retiring in an RV, including the costs, the ability to change location easily, and the potential to travel and volunteer, which is convenient for retirees who want an active retirement.

'Retirees Are Into Camping Now — Here’s How You Can Be, Too.' Kiplinger, www.kiplinger.com. It focuses on the curative and empowering aspects of camping for retirees, explaining how interaction with nature can improve the physical and mental health.

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Consolidated Edison?

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

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

Employees can enroll in the Consolidated Edison 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Consolidated Edison offer a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Consolidated Edison offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Consolidated Edison 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Consolidated Edison 401(k) plan is in line with IRS guidelines, which are updated annually. Employees should check the current limits for the year.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) savings at Consolidated Edison?

Yes, Consolidated Edison allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in the Consolidated Edison 401(k) plan?

The Consolidated Edison 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Consolidated Edison 401(k) plan?

Yes, there is a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Consolidated Edison 401(k) plan, which determines how much of the employer contributions employees are entitled to based on their years of service.

How can employees check their 401(k) balance with Consolidated Edison?

Employees can check their 401(k) balance with Consolidated Edison by logging into the retirement plan portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

What happens to the 401(k) savings if an employee leaves Consolidated Edison?

If an employee leaves Consolidated Edison, they have several options for their 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Consolidated Edison plan if eligible.

Are there any fees associated with the Consolidated Edison 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be fees associated with the Consolidated Edison 401(k) plan, which can include administrative fees and investment-related fees. Employees should review the plan documents for detailed information.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Consolidated Edison offers a traditional pension plan under the Final Average Pay and CECONY Career Average formulas, which include a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) to help protect retirement income against inflation. Employees who retired under these formulas receive an automatic COLA, but this does not apply to those under the cash balance formula or hired after June 26, 2005, in certain unions. The pension plan details, including service years and age qualifications, are outlined in the company’s retirement plan documents. Consolidated Edison’s 401(k) plan is managed by Vanguard, offering various investment options. The plan includes employer contributions and is available to all eligible employees. For detailed specifics, refer to the company's 2023 retirement plan documents
Restructuring Layoffs and Company Changes: Consolidated Edison has been actively managing its workforce and financial strategies in response to the evolving energy market. In early 2024, the company announced various structural adjustments, including potential layoffs, to streamline operations and adapt to clean energy initiatives. These actions are critical to address due to the current economic conditions, political pressures to shift towards sustainable energy, and the necessity of maintaining investor confidence amidst market fluctuations. Addressing these workforce adjustments is essential in the current investment climate.
Stock Options: Con Edison provides its employees with stock options, allowing them to purchase shares at a predetermined price. This option becomes valuable if the company's stock price increases over time. The acronym commonly used for these options within the company is ESO (Employee Stock Options). Restricted Stock Units (RSUs): RSUs are awarded to employees as a form of compensation. These units represent a promise to deliver company shares to employees upon meeting certain conditions, such as continued employment over a specific period. The RSUs granted by Con Edison typically vest over a few years, ensuring long-term employee commitment. The RSUs are denoted internally with the acronym RSU.
Healthcare Plans: Con Edison offers comprehensive health benefits through providers like Cigna and CVS Health. For 2024, the Cigna Open Access Plus Copay Plan is a prominent option for retirees under 65 and those who are Medicare-eligible. This plan includes coverage for hospital stays, outpatient services, routine preventive care, and emergency room visits. The benefits also extend to vision care, with coverage for routine eye exams and glasses every 24 months. Cost Management: To manage increasing healthcare costs, especially under Medicare, Con Edison has emphasized the importance of selecting appropriate coverage during open enrollment periods. The company has adjusted its offerings over the years, such as discontinuing the Aetna Non-Medicare plan after 2023 and limiting new enrollments in certain HMOs. Healthcare-Related Acronyms: Specific terms used by Con Edison include "HMO" (Health Maintenance Organization), "PPO" (Preferred Provider Organization), and "FSA" (Flexible Spending Account), which are essential for understanding the various health plan options and associated benefits.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Consolidated Edison at 4 Irving Place New York, NY 10003; or by calling them at (212) 460-4600.

https://www.retirees.coned.com/en/benefits/cost-of-living-adjustment https://www.thelayoff.com/t/ulNi6Yn https://conedison.gcs-web.com/proxy-0 https://pitchbook.com/profiles/company/41385-52 https://www.theretirementgroup.com/featured-article/5448106/how-consolidated-edison-employees-can-manage-healthcare-cost-increases https://www.emparion.com/ https://www6.lifeatworkportal.com/slogin/edison/pdf/GY5_H12_H20_2024_Benefits_Enrollment_Guide_Flex.pdf

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