The Future of Work, Retirement Risks, and a Silver Lining for Medicare Advantage

The economy is increasingly asking more of today’s pre-retirees — physically, mentally, and, of course, financially.

From the IMF’s call to push retirement past age 70 to rising long-term care costs and shifting Medicare policies, the rules of retirement seem to be ever in-flux. So we’ve rounded up five more key headlines that shed light on how retirement planning is evolving in real time — and how to stay prepared, not panicked.

If you’re wondering what this means for your own plan, take our free 2-minute quiz to get matched with a vetted advisor who may be able to help you navigate what’s next.

—The Money Pickle Team

Is 70 the New 65?

The IMF is encouraging governments to tap into the potential of healthy older workers by raising retirement ages. Their reasoning? Today’s 70-year-olds may be just as cognitively sharp and physically fit as 50-somethings from decades ago. It’s far from a done deal — but the conversation is clearly not going anywhere.

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Medicare Advantage Plans Get a Boost for 2026

Good news for current and future retirees: CMS has increased 2026 reimbursement rates for Medicare Advantage plans, easing some concerns about disappearing coverage and rising costs. While it’s too early to know exactly what this means for your plan, the outlook is a bit brighter today than it was a few months ago.

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Four Risky Retirement Assumptions

A recent Morningstar piece flags common planning missteps that could throw off retirement projections, like assuming strong market returns or that you’ll work well past 65. Many of these assumptions may seem harmless, but all of them could leave retirees underprepared. A key takeaway: plan conservatively and remain flexible.

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The Market Rewards Patience

Forbes highlighted how periods of financial stress can be opportunities for reflection, not just reaction. Understanding your emotional responses to volatility may offer insight into whether your current financial setup truly aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.

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Three Retirement Costs That Catch Many Off Guard

From out-of-pocket healthcare expenses to long-term care and inflation, many retirees underestimate the true cost of retirement. A recent piece breaks down these "budget busters" and explains why even confident planners may want to revisit their projections.

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🥒 Pickle Tip:

When you read a headline that sparks concern — or confusion — take a beat. The best next step usually isn’t immediate action, but rather taking the time to understand what’s happening and how it might apply to you.

🌟 Final Thought

This week’s news is a reminder that financial planning means more than just making one plan. The financial landscape is always changing and demands adaptability.

If something here made you pause, a brief, no-pressure conversation with an advisor in the Money Pickle network could help bring clarity to your long-term strategy.

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