Healthcare Provider Update: Leidos Holdings, Inc. does not directly provide its own healthcare services; instead, it offers health insurance benefits to its employees through various third-party insurance providers. The specifics of these healthcare providers may change based on company contracts and employee preferences during open enrollment periods. Looking ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are anticipated to rise significantly, driven by a combination of factors impacting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. Insurers are requesting steep premium increases-some exceeding 60% in certain states-partly due to higher medical costs and the potential loss of enhanced federal premium subsidies. This could lead to out-of-pocket premium increases of over 75% for a large number of enrollees, primarily affecting middle-income Americans who may struggle to maintain adequate coverage. As the insurance landscape evolves, individuals and families must prepare for these financial implications and consider proactive strategies to mitigate costs. Click here to learn more
The path to retirement marks a profound transition in life, encompassing not only financial adjustments but significant psychological and physical changes as well. The early years of this phase can deeply influence the subsequent decades, making it crucial for Leidos Holdings employees to approach retirement with a strategic and informed perspective.
Stephen Kreider Yoder and Karen Kreider Yoder provide a clear illustration of how to address the challenges that emerge as retirement nears. Stephen, a former editor at the Wall Street Journal, and his wife Karen have shared their proactive steps to maintain their health and vitality.
Initial Encounters and Preventive Measures
Stephen's experience with a persistent eye issue during his travels highlights a critical aspect of retirement: the inevitability of health issues. What started as a minor blur in his vision led to an emergency room visit in Minnesota, showcasing the unpredictable nature of health in retirement. This incident served as a reminder for Leidos Holdings personnel of the importance of vigilance and early medical consultation, a commitment the couple embraced upon retiring.
The Importance of Regular Health Patterns
Aware of age-related risks like cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma, Stephen and Karen decided to undertake regular health screenings. This includes the Medicare Wellness Visit, a preventive measure that helps create personalized plans to ward off illnesses. During these visits, assessments such as cognitive tests are performed, which Stephen passed, highlighting an essential element of health monitoring for Leidos Holdings retirees.
Lifestyle Adjustments and Risk Management
They have also focused on adapting their lifestyle to reduce health risks. For example, Stephen stopped climbing stairs and both are more cautious about multitasking while walking. These adjustments are part of broader risk-reduction rules they have set to prevent falls and other accidents, particularly relevant as physical flexibility decreases with age at Leidos Holdings.
Nutritional Considerations and Physical Activity
Karen takes a proactive approach to preserving her health, consulting healthcare professionals, including family members who are physicians. She has been advised to focus on prevention through diet, physical activity, and mental health practices. Following longevity experts like Peter Attia, she aims to maintain a diet rich in grains, white meats, and primarily plants, alongside regular physical activities like cycling and weight training, ensuring Leidos Holdings employees maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Psychological Well-being and Social Engagement
The mental aspect of retirement is as crucial as the physical side. Loneliness and social isolation can lead to depression and other mental health issues in older adults. Karen and Stephen are aware of this, striving to remain socially active, which is essential for emotional and psychological well-being among Leidos Holdings colleagues.
Financial Health as Part of Overall Health
While their monthly columns lack explicit financial details, the financial aspect of retirement is inherently connected to overall health. The eye condition that Stephen encountered resulted in a significant medical bill, for which they were partially responsible. This situation highlights the importance of financial planning and the potential for unexpected expenses associated with aging for Leidos Holdings employees.
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In Conclusion
The Yoders' journey serves as a reflective example for many entering this life phase at Leidos Holdings. They emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to retirement that includes health vigilance, preventive care, lifestyle adjustments, and maintaining social connections. As they navigate their later years, their experiences and insights offer valuable lessons on managing and possibly enhancing the chances of a healthy recovery.
Adopting a holistic perspective on retirement is not just about preserving health but also ensuring that life's later years are as fulfilling and enriching as possible. The proactive measures taken by the Yoders serve as a model for others, showing that while aging is inevitable, deterioration is not an absolute outcome if appropriate steps are taken.
A recent study by the American Heart Association (2021) underscores the importance of maintaining cardiovascular health in retirement. According to the study, individuals over 60 can significantly reduce their risk of cardiovascular diseases by engaging in moderate aerobic activities like brisk walking for at least 150 minutes per week. This routine not only improves heart health but also strengthens physical and mental well-being, essential components for a fulfilling retirement for Leidos Holdings retirees. Incorporating regular cardiovascular activity is a proactive initiative to extend vitality and reduce health expenses in the coming years.
What options does Leidos offer for employees looking to transition into retirement, and how can these options impact employees' financial planning for retirement? Employees may want to consider their defined benefit pension plans and other retirement savings options provided by Leidos, understanding how these plans complement each other.
Retirement Options at Leidos: Leidos offers employees various retirement options, including defined benefit pension plans and retirement savings plans. These options can greatly impact an employee’s financial planning for retirement, helping them ensure a steady income stream post-retirement. Employees should carefully consider how their pension plans complement their 401(k) and other retirement benefits to make informed financial decisions.
In what ways can an employee at Leidos maximize their retirement benefits, particularly regarding the integration of short-term and long-term disability benefits? Employees should assess their eligibility for both STD and LTD benefits to navigate their retirement effectively while ensuring their financial security during any potential health-related absences.
Maximizing Retirement Benefits and Disability: Employees at Leidos can maximize their retirement benefits by understanding how short-term and long-term disability (STD/LTD) benefits integrate with their retirement plans. STD covers up to 180 days, and LTD can provide up to 60% of base salary if a disability extends beyond 180 days. Understanding the eligibility and benefit durations can help employees ensure financial stability during health-related work absences(Leidos_2018 Disability …).
How do the IRS limits for 2024 relate to the retirement savings plans available at Leidos, and what strategies can employees employ to ensure they are on track to meet these limits? Understanding the contribution limits for 401(k) plans and the implications of these limits can provide an essential framework for retirement savings.
IRS Limits for 2024: The IRS contribution limits for 401(k) plans in 2024 are crucial for retirement planning. Employees should stay informed about these limits to ensure they are contributing the maximum allowable amount to their retirement accounts. Leidos’ retirement plans are structured to accommodate these limits, allowing employees to optimize their retirement savings.
What are the distinct differences between the short-term and long-term disability benefits provided by Leidos that employees should understand before entering retirement? Employees must grasp how STD and LTD benefits operate, including eligibility requirements, duration of benefits, and how they can influence financial planning for retirement.
Differences Between STD and LTD at Leidos: Leidos provides both short-term and long-term disability plans, which differ in eligibility, duration, and coverage. STD benefits last for up to 180 days, while LTD benefits take effect afterward and can cover up to 60% of base salary. Understanding these differences is key for employees planning for potential health-related income disruptions(Leidos_2018 Disability …).
How can employees learn more about Leidos’ retirement benefits, including retirement counseling services and resources available for pre-retirement planning? Understanding how to navigate these resources is vital for employees approaching retirement to make informed decisions about their benefits.
Accessing Retirement Counseling and Resources: Leidos provides access to retirement counseling services and resources to support pre-retirement planning. Employees should take advantage of these services to better understand their retirement options, including pension payout options, 401(k) plans, and health coverage post-retirement.
What steps should an employee at Leidos take if they are considering early retirement, particularly concerning their health coverage and pension plan options? Exploring the implications of early retirement on health benefits and retirement income is essential as employees transition into this phase of life.
Steps for Early Retirement: Employees considering early retirement at Leidos should carefully review the impact on their health coverage and pension plans. Early retirement may reduce pension benefits and affect access to certain health benefits, so understanding the full financial impact is essential before making this decision.
How do Leidos’ disability policies affect an employee's retirement plans, and what should they be aware of regarding eligibility and claims processes? Knowing when and how to file claims for disability while planning for retirement can significantly affect financial stability in later years.
Disability Policies and Retirement Plans: Leidos’ disability policies can significantly affect retirement plans. Both STD and LTD policies have eligibility requirements that can influence how long an employee can receive benefits, and they should consider these policies in their broader retirement planning(Leidos_2018 Disability …).
In what ways can retirement planning discussions evolve at Leidos, especially as employees enter their final years of service? This inquiry addresses the evolving nature of retirement benefits and effective planning practices employees should prioritize as they prepare to retire.
Evolving Retirement Planning Discussions: Retirement planning at Leidos should evolve as employees approach the end of their careers. Employees should regularly review their pension plans, retirement savings, and healthcare options to ensure they are maximizing their benefits and making adjustments as needed for a smooth transition into retirement.
What information can Leidos employees access regarding their pension plan's payout options upon retirement, and what factors should they consider when selecting their payout option? Understanding the different distributions available to employees can help them choose the best option for their financial situation post-retirement.
Pension Plan Payout Options: Leidos employees can access detailed information regarding pension plan payout options, including lump-sum and annuity payments. Employees should evaluate factors such as longevity, tax implications, and financial needs when selecting the best payout option to ensure financial security in retirement.
How can employees at Leidos contact Human Resources to inquire further about their retirement options and benefits? Clear communication channels and support can facilitate a smoother transition into retirement for all employees looking to understand their rights and benefits associated with retirement at Leidos.
Contacting Human Resources for Retirement Inquiries: Leidos employees can contact Human Resources to inquire about retirement options, benefits, and any necessary paperwork. Clear communication with HR is essential for understanding the specific retirement resources available and ensuring a smooth retirement process.