Connections Area Agency on Aging works every day to encourage Older Iowans to Age Their Way and Equality for All. The month of April is recognized as Financial Literacy Awareness Month. Connections Area Agency on Aging is partnering with Iowa Insurance Division to host a free in-person training in Council Bluffs focusing on educating and empowering women to be involved in their finances and future planning to reduce the risk if being a victim of financial exploitation or scams.
Connections Area Agency on Aging is proud to participate in this awareness recognition. Throughout the year we partner with local and state organizations and agencies to better serve Older Iowans their Caregivers and our communities.
The Iowa Insurance Division knows It’s important for all Iowans to have the tools to learn how to save for a secure retirement. For women though the financial journey often looks different. To help women navigate the oftentimes confusing financial journey, the Iowa Insurance Division has created a new public outreach program created specifically for women called SmartHER Money.
Why women are more likely to be victims of financial elder abuse? There are more older women than men. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, women's life expectancy is projected to reach 87.3 years by 2060, compared with 83.9 years for men. (https://www.census.gov/content/dam/Census/library/publications/2020/demo/p25-1145.pdf page 5). Women are more likely than men to live alone; people who live alone are more likely to be victims of financial scams as they feel lonely and seeking the companionship often found in a scammer and there is no one to talk for a second opinion before a financial decision is made.
Some common questions women may have regarding their financial situation especially after the passing of their spouse may be: How long will my money last? What do I do in a financial emergency? What are the best investments if I don’t have a lot of money? Is it too early or too late for me to start saving for retirement? SmartHER Money can help you with these questions and so many more. No matter your financial status, age or stage in life, the importance of money management for women can’t be overlooked.
Financial Information for Women is scheduled for Friday April 29, 2022, at 10a-12:30p at the Holiday Inn and Suites Hotel (next to Ameristar Casino) and one can register online at Connectionsaaa.org or by calling our agency at 800-432-9209.
Get more information about how to make a difference or if you believe that you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse or needs help with future planning for aging needs visit www.Connectionsaaa.org or call us at 1-800-432-9209 to explore local community services and supports.
