http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news.aspx 60 en-us http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/ways-to-help-save-money-when-buying-life-insurance-800761792.aspx When parents have children or other relatives who rely on them, life insurance helps guarantee that they will be financially protected should something happen.

However, because life insurance in an investment, it can often be an expensive thing to purchase, especially if policyholders purchase it later in life. With this in mind, SavingsAccounts.com* offers a few recommendations that will help consumers get the coverage they need at an affordable rate.

Buy a specific amount

One way of going about this is purchasing only the amount that is needed. Policy holders can determine the amount of coverage they need by looking at the factors that establish what their standard of living is, the California Department of Insurance suggests. This includes determining what outstanding debts and assets one has, how much savings they have accumulated and what sources of income they will have after their death.

Consider term over whole

Another factor is determining the best type of life insurance to purchase. As a rule, life insurance boils down to one of two types—term and whole. SavingsAccounts.com says that if policyholders have a series of goals in mind that follow a timeline—such as paying off a mortgage and saving enough for a child's college education fund—term life is often the way to go. The money-saving website also indicates that term life insurance tends to be cheaper than whole. However, life insurance customers may want to review all of the costs and benefits of whole and term products with an agent before choosing one.

Buy early, save later

SavingsAccounts.com also recommends buying life insurance as early in life as possible.

"The younger you are when you start a policy, the lower your premium will be," the retirement and investment website indicates.

In addition, buying early also has the benefit of being able to lock in an affordable rate for an extended period, though this may vary among providers and policies.

Live as healthy a life as possible

Staying healthy is another way life insurance customers can reduce their costs. Exercising on a regular basis, seeking out smoking cessation programs for smokers and eating a balanced diet are some of the best ways to enhance one's well-being, which insurers look upon favorably, SavingsAccounts.com notes.

Pay premiums annually

How customers pay their life insurance premiums can affect their costs as well. The website says that paying on a yearly basis—rather than monthly or every other month—is preferable, as any interest rates that apply are often lower when paying annually.

Ask about any discounts available

To encourage customers to buy, insurers will often offer discounts. SavingsAccounts.com says customers should look for any advertised discounts, as they may be able to get hundreds of thousands of dollars in coverage for a fraction of the cost.

*according to SavingsAccounts.com on April 2, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/ways-to-help-save-money-when-buying-life-insurance-800761792.aspx Thu, 26 Apr 2012 12:10:11 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/too-many-americans-put-off-purchasing-life-insurance-800735567.aspx Life insurance is a common method of insuring your loved ones will be taken care of after you are gone. A sufficient life insurance policy can help survivors cover funeral costs, pay off a home, set up a college fund for surviving children and meet their day-to-day needs. Nevertheless, for all its benefits, a sizable percentage of the country has put off purchasing life insurance for several reasons. Some may balk at the cost, while young, single adults do not believe they need coverage yet because they haven't started a family.

A new study, however, shows that many Americans procrastinate when it comes to buying life insurance because they believe they have plenty of time. The report, issued by nonprofit LIFE Foundation*, shows that if adults knew how little time they actually had, they might actually rush toward purchasing a policy.

According to the results, only 2 percent of those surveyed said they plan to purchase a life insurance policy within 30 days. However, this percentage climbed to 62 percent if participants were told they only had 30 days to live.

"The reality that millions of Americans refuse to admit is that it's never a question of 'if' they will die, but 'when' that day will come," said Marvin Feldman, president and CEO of the LIFE Foundation. "If you have people who depend on you financially and would suffer when you die, there's no excuse for not buying life insurance right now, before it's too late."

Purchasing a life insurance policy

Most adults list the cost of life insurance as the primary reason they procrastinate. However, several different life insurance options offer affordability to individuals of all income brackets. According to LIFE Foundation data, the overall cost of term life insurance has dropped 50 percent over the last 10 years. In addition, young adults who are in good health should consider purchasing life insurance sooner rather than later to receive the most competitive insurance premiums.

Lastly, there are several different insurance packages to choose from, and the type of coverage an individual needs may depend on his or her particular circumstances. For this reason, it's important to work with an agent to be informed of your options and choose the best policy that meets your needs.

*according to the LIFE Foundation, on Feb. 10, 2012.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/too-many-americans-put-off-purchasing-life-insurance-800735567.aspx Thu, 22 Mar 2012 14:00:14 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/few-recall-opportunities-to-purchase-life-insurance-800709890.aspx Even though there are many avenues through which individuals can buy life insurance, a new survey indicates that a large percentage of individuals in recent years feel their opportunities were few and far between.

According to LIMRA's 2011 Life Insurance Buyer/Non-buyer study*, just 39 percent of U.S. households polled said they were able to recollect having the chance to buy a life insurance policy within the past two years.

Singles least likely to have life insurance purchase opportunity

Cheryl Retzloff, senior research director at LIMRA Markets, said that the trend was particularly apparent for individuals who aren't married.

"This phenomenon is especially true for single people, a growing segment of the population, because of a decline in marriages and an increase in divorce during the past few decades," said Retzloff. "Only 26 percent of single people recall having an opportunity to buy life insurance."

She added that among those who did have the opportunity to buy life insurance, 51 percent were likely to have purchased, slightly less than the 58 percent of married households that bought a policy.

Online availability rarely led to purchases

While the internet has made life insurance availability greater, the survey found that online shopping for a policy rarely translated into actual purchases. For instance, LIMRA notes that while a greater percentage of households shopped for life insurance online in 2011—22 percent versus 11 percent in 2003—fewer households actually purchased a policy, totaling 54 percent versus 70 percent eight years ago.

The source suggests that even though internet capability gives life insurance policy seekers another avenue to purchase a policy, its ease of access may have contributed to why so many people didn't ultimately buy. When comparing individuals who shopped online with those who met with a life insurance sales representative, just 36 percent of online shoppers bought compared to 74 percent who bought after having a face-to-face meeting with a sales agent.

Children impact life insurance buys

The study also detailed what characteristics set apart those who bought compared to those who did not. The biggest influence on this was whether the respondents had children. Nearly 50 percent of life insurance buyers had at least one child under the age of 18 living with them, compared with 38 percent who had children but did not buy coverage.

While many people who purchase life insurance do so with their children in mind, a separate poll found that the number of children parents have increases their concern about whether they should have coverage. According to a global report released by financial services firm HSBC**, 26 percent of families with one child believe not having life insurance is extremely risky. But among parents with three children, 40 percent consider not having life insurance to be a risk.

*according to LIMRA on January 24, 2012

**according to HSBC on January 4, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/few-recall-opportunities-to-purchase-life-insurance-800709890.aspx Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:04:43 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/why-do-i-need-life-insurance-800679601.aspx As men and women grow older and form families of their own, they often start thinking about financial preparations and expenses that they rarely thought about when they were younger.

One of these is life insurance, a coverage policy that, according to J.D Power and Associates, 40 percent of adult Americans lack. In fact, according to a recent poll conducted by LIMRA, only 22 percent of households "seriously shopped" for life insurance in 2011. Of these shoppers, slightly more than half made a purchase.

With so many people going without it, some people may be wondering whether they really need to buy a life insurance policy. But according to the Insurance Information Institute, going without one may be a mistake, as financial experts say life insurance is a crucial aspect of financial planning.  

Life insurance provides for dependents, end-of-life expenses

One of the reasons why is because life insurance replaces income for a policyholder's dependents should they die. As III indicates, dependents could be young children but they can also include siblings, parents or adult children who are financially reliant on someone else.

Another reason why life insurance is important to have is that it pays for end-of-life expenses. III says a standard life insurance policy will cover funeral and burial costs of the policyholder and will also take care of medical expenses that aren't covered by health insurance. They can provide for debts from lenders as well, such as banks and credit card companies.

Life insurance can be used to establish an inheritance

An additional benefit to life insurance is that it can help a policyholder's dependents establish an inheritance. By naming these dependents beneficiaries, life insurance allows them to obtain assets that policyholders may want to pass on, the III notes.

When someone passes away, the federal and state governments collect estate taxes on the decedent's assets, more often referred to as so-called "death" taxes. So beneficiaries don't have to take a smaller inheritance to pay off these fees, life insurance provides for these costs, according to the III.

But even if someone doesn't have any dependents, life insurance can do a great deal of good for others. III indicates that policyholders can use their plans to donate to a charitable organization. In fact, by making a charity a beneficiary, policyholders can contribute a greater amount of money than if the cash equivalent of the policy's premiums were donated.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/why-do-i-need-life-insurance-800679601.aspx Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:33:12 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/finding-the-right-life-insurance-policy-800618624.aspx There comes a point in everyone's life when the topic of life insurance comes up and you begin thinking more critically about whether it's time to purchase a policy. You may have recently gotten married, decided to start a family or obtained a riskier job. But whatever your reason may be, it's wise to educate yourself on life insurance basics and examine your own financial situation to find a policy that coincides.

The key in choosing adequate coverage is to know what you're looking for, and there are a few questions you should ask yourself to get on the right track.

Before you start crunching the numbers, take a look at the financial security you already have in place, advises the Insurance Information Institute. For example, does your current employer offer life insurance? And if so, is this policy sufficient? Find out what your employer's payout structure is before purchasing an additional policy. In most cases, an employer's life insurance payout may only equal one year of your salary, which may be insufficient for your family's needs, the III reports.

In addition to your employer's policy, total up any supplemental sources of income that will be available to your loved ones, such as annuity policies, Social Security survivor's benefits, and investment holdings.

Once you have an accurate picture of your survivors' financial situation, you will be better prepared to explore different life insurance policies. First, determine whether a term or permanent insurance policy will be in your best interest. Term insurance policies will only pay out benefits to survivors if you pass away during the term of the policy, which generally amounts to 30 years, the III explains. Permanent policies, as the name suggests, will remain in place as long as you continue paying your insurance premiums.

Premium payments for term life insurance tend to be cheaper than those for permanent policies, but you should take a number of factors into account, ranging from your overall health to your age, before making a decision between the two types of coverage.

Deciding approximately how much coverage your family may need can be the most challenging aspect of choosing a policy. Industry experts generally suggest you multiply your annual income by at least 10 to come up with a sufficient face value amount, but it’s wise to discuss your specific situation with your agent. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/finding-the-right-life-insurance-policy-800618624.aspx Fri, 14 Oct 2011 06:58:31 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/couples-urged-to-gift-life-insurance-policies-800336362.aspx It may seem like a morbid thought, but making sure those in a person's life will be cared for financially may be one of the most thoughtful gifts possible.

Previously, the Life Health Insurance Foundation for Education launched a campaign to help send the message home to couples with their "hitch a ride with Cupid" campaign. Comedian Jared Logan helped the organization by participating in a video promoting the initiative.

Some couples may shy away from life insurance because they feel they are too young or can't afford the coverage. Such thoughts, however, can be wrong.

Depending on the type of policy purchased, life insurance can be affordable for any budget. Term coverage tends to feature lower monthly premiums because the insurance is extended for a designated time frame.

Life insurance rates can also vary depending on the amount of coverage purchased, age and overall health of the person being covered.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/couples-urged-to-gift-life-insurance-policies-800336362.aspx Tue, 11 Jan 2011 15:54:58 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/va-says-tens-of-millions-in-benefits-going-unclaimed-800335035.aspx Approximately $33 million of funding from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has not yet been claimed, according to ABC News, some of which dates back to the department's inception in 1917.

The executive director of the American Military Retirees Association, Peg Bergeron, told the news network veterans should find out whether they are owed any money.

"A life insurance policy could make a huge difference for the veteran's family, but only if they know who to contact and how to claim it," Bergeron told Good Morning America.

CBS affiliate WCSC says family members of veterans might have to consult county court records for their loved one's VA insurance file number if they have a particularly common name. The department does require a significant amount of identity verification before it will disburse any money to veterans or their family members, the television news station says. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/va-says-tens-of-millions-in-benefits-going-unclaimed-800335035.aspx Tue, 11 Jan 2011 09:28:09 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/savings-can-be-found-on-life-insurance-800325277.aspx Experts say life insurance premiums are getting cheaper now that people are living longer, and consumers can expand on those lower costs if they look in the right places.

USA Today reported many Americans are skipping out on life insurance policies because they think the costs are too prohibitive in tight economic times. However, given the dropping value of assets such as homes and retirement savings, a strong life insurance policy is more important than ever to ensure families have adequate financial security. The paper recommends those looking for a new policy consider their personal lifestyle and financial situation and buy a policy that suits them.

For instance, regular families would likely find perfectly adequate coverage with a term life insurance policy, which is typically far more affordable than permanent coverage. However, if they wish to plan for their estate or own a business and need indefinite coverage, a permanent insurance policy might be worth the cost.

Additionally, the source recommends buyers shop for policies early in life - when they're in better health and liable to find better prices.

Some might consider looking into group insurance through their employer, though experts point out that if they're in good health, an individual might save more by shopping for their own life insurance policy.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/savings-can-be-found-on-life-insurance-800325277.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 13:07:23 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/life-insurance-still-critical-for-empty-nesters-800325271.aspx Some might think that once their children are off to college or living independently, the need for life insurance dwindles.

However, the Insurance Information Institute reports even older Americans require a life insurance policy, especially if their children aren't their only dependents. For instance, life insurance could provide for the financial security of parents, older disabled children, or other dependents if a policyholder passes away before they do. Additionally, life insurance can fill in the gap from reduced Social Security benefits, which typically occur between the time their child leaves the house and the surviving spouse applies for retirement benefits.

Ultimately, life insurance allows older consumers to plan for any unexpected expenses for their family, ensure that critical payment responsibilities such as tuition are met and create an overall financial "safety net," said the source.

"Conventional wisdom says each household should have an 'emergency fund' equal to about half a year's income, to meet surprise unavoidable outlays," said the report. Life insurance can provide that safety net if families have been unable to accumulate those savings.

It is also important to review one's insurance policy at least once a year, the III recommends, since important life changes happen more frequently than families might realize.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/life-insurance-still-critical-for-empty-nesters-800325271.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 13:02:46 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/before-deployment-make-a-financial-checklist-and-check-insurance-800325243.aspx Deployment can be a tough time emotionally for families, but proper preparation can ensure one's military deployment does not also create financial hardship.

It's important before heading out on an assignment to review one's financial obligations, suggests MilitaryConnection.com. Families should decide ahead of time if they plan on making use of their tax exemptions or hazardous-duty pay, and set clear instructions on how and when those funds should be used. Military workers can also speak with their creditors to see if there are any payment or consolidation plans available to them that might make it easier for their family to pay bills while they're away.

Most of all, servicemen and women should have a clear idea of what kind of home, auto and life insurance they require. If they already have the coverage, they should be sure they know where their policy documents are and keep them handy and organized. If something unfortunate were to happen while they were away, life insurance in particular could be a critical asset for their family.

Additionally, Livestrong advises families to make sure non-military spouses are included as beneficiaries on life insurance policies. Spouses should also know their partners’ Social Security number and other vital information in case they need to fill out paperwork in their absence.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/before-deployment-make-a-financial-checklist-and-check-insurance-800325243.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 12:49:44 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/men-remain-less-healthy-than-women-800323970.aspx Despite recent efforts to promote regular doctors visits and preventative screenings among men, USA Today reports data from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) continues to show that men are far less healthy than women, reinforcing the need for life insurance.

According to HHS, nearly 75 percent of men are overweight and 20 percent have heart disease, both long-term health risks which have led to a shorter lifespan.

"I feel like we're starting behind where health is concerned, compared to women," Scott Williams, vice president of the nonprofit Men's Health Network, told the paper. "If you look at the data, women are 100 percent more likely than men to seek preventative care. It's really scary."

Williams added that more men than women are killed by nine of the 10 leading causes of death in the country.

Obesity and other factors have also led to an overall decline in life expectancy in the U.S. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the average American life expectancy declined by a tenth of a year to 77.8 years, with women living, on average, five years longer than men. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/men-remain-less-healthy-than-women-800323970.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 08:46:10 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/health-finances-the-top-concerns-for-baby-boomers-800323963.aspx While a new survey finds that most baby boomers approaching retirement are happy about where they are right now, they also said personal health and finances were their biggest worries, highlighting the importance of life insurance to help take care of their loved ones.

The survey, completed by Woelful Research for AARP, found that while 87 percent of those turning 65 next year feel hopeful about their next five years, 51 percent also remain uncertain.

The biggest concerns of those surveyed were related to the states of their health and finances. Thirty-one percent of those surveyed said their health is worse than anticipated, and 28 percent called it the biggest barrier in the way of their dreams.

In terms of money, 32 percent of respondents said that they felt their financial situation would be better than it currently is, and 26 percent said it would be a major obstacle.

Despite these concerns, fewer families have life insurance now than ever before. A recent report by the industry group LIMRA found that just 44 percent of U.S. households had an individual policy - the lowest rate in 50 years. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/health-finances-the-top-concerns-for-baby-boomers-800323963.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 08:42:05 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/life-insurance-policies-should-vary-with-needs-800323936.aspx While it remains a solid investment in many situations, financial advisors Forbes that consumers shouldn't believe there is one level of life insurance coverage that's right for everyone.

The news source states the people who most need life insurance are younger families with debt or other obligations that would be tough to pay off if they suddenly passed.

"To me your insurance is an aspect of your overall financial plan," Roger Wohlner, a fee-only financial advisor in Illinois, told the source. "Ideally you should look at it annually, or every couple of years, and see if circumstances have changed."

In terms of the amount of coverage needed, the source said some recommendations are for 15 times the person's average income, or enough to cover any debts plus 3.5 times their income.

Despite the interest in life insurance, industry officials say fewer Americans are taking out policies. According to LIMRA, an insurance industry group, just 44 percent of households have individual life insurance. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/life-insurance-policies-should-vary-with-needs-800323936.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 08:26:40 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/with-new-year-here-time-is-ripe-to-review-insurance-policies-800322890.aspx The New Year has arrived, and experts suggest homeowners take the time to have a look at each of their insurance policies.

There are a handful of factors to take into consideration, but a careful review of insurance policies might end up saving consumers in the long run, columnist John Wasik wrote for Reuters. Wasik advises consumers to consider any important life changes they've experienced within the past year - including a marriage, new children, or a new home. Each of these events might require them to change their homeowners, auto or life insurance policies to better suit their evolving needs.

Additionally, certain events might help save them money on their insurance. For instance, Wasik explained that a handful of household improvement he made - including installing deadbolt locks and a new roof - produced significant savings on his homeowners insurance. Increasing his deductible on health and auto insurance also saved money, though consumers should only consider this if they can afford the out-of-pocket costs.

Bundling insurance policies under one company can also save consumers money. Experts note that many companies offer discounts if consumers purchase all of their coverage with them.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/with-new-year-here-time-is-ripe-to-review-insurance-policies-800322890.aspx Tue, 04 Jan 2011 16:21:18 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/life-insurance-can-cover-nursing-home-costs-per-ny-law-800322883.aspx New York Governor David Paterson signed legislation giving seniors another option when considering the costs of nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

The bill, sponsored by state Senator Jeff Klein, allows seniors to put a portion of their accelerated death benefits toward long-term care costs if they have lived in a nursing home for at least three months. The law not only benefits seniors, but also frees up a significant revenue drain on state taxpayers - the rising cost of Medicaid benefits, explained Klein.

State life insurers said the law was a step in the right direction for New York seniors.

"The Life Insurance Council of New York (LICONY) applauds Senator Klein and Assemblyman [Joseph] Morelle for sponsoring legislation that will provide insurers and policyholders with another option for utilizing their life insurance death benefit when it is needed and when they choose to exercise the option," said Diane Stuto, executive vice president of LICONY.

More than 9 million New York residents had life insurance in 2008, including roughly $2 trillion in death benefit coverage, according to the most recent data from LICONY.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/life-insurance-can-cover-nursing-home-costs-per-ny-law-800322883.aspx Tue, 04 Jan 2011 16:19:27 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/medical-device-might-help-prevent-sleep-apnea-800322863.aspx Next month, doctors with Inspire Medical Systems in Minnesota will embark on a study which they hope will prove a new pacemaker-like device can end sleep apnea.

The condition is created by an overly-relaxed tongue and throat muscles, and besides loud snoring, it can lead to dangerously blocked airways. In the best case scenario, sufferers violently jerk away and are deprived of precious hours of sleep. In the worst case scenario, they might even choke to death. The condition also heightens stress and can lead to high blood pressure and a risk for heart attack, stroke or diabetes, factors that can also lead to higher life insurance premiums.

Researchers hope a surgical implant, which will jolt the tongue with a mild shock in an effort to clear airways, will lead to reduced use of inhibitive masks - the only current cure for sleep apnea.

"In this kind of research, we're not looking for little changes," Dr. Meir Kryger, a sleep specialist helping to lead the study, told the Associated Press. "What we're looking for is actually cure."

Sleep apnea has become a major concern among commercial drivers because a lack of sleep increases the risk of car accidents. Last year, the National Transportation Safety Board recommended pilots and truck drivers be screened for the condition before hitting the road.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/medical-device-might-help-prevent-sleep-apnea-800322863.aspx Tue, 04 Jan 2011 16:12:21 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/life-insurance-vital-to-replace-income-pay-for-services-800322858.aspx At a time when many Americans are concerned with their depleted savings accounts or short cash reserves, some might focus more on life insurance as an investment tool than a safety net.

While it is true that life insurance can be leveraged into investment avenues or other financial strategies, a California finance expert wrote in a column for the Pasadena Star-News that those looking for coverage should remember its most important function. Mary Hunt, founder of the website DebtProofLiving, said life insurance's most vital purpose is to replace the income that would no longer be coming in once a policyholder passes away.

Many might simply look for enough coverage to cover the cost of a burial or funeral services, but a strong life insurance policy should cover much more than this, advised Hunt. Policyholders should consider the income they generate, as well as cost for certain services - such as daycare or housekeeping.

When deciding how much life insurance to purchase, the Insurance Information Institute advises consumers to consider "hidden income" sources that aren't included in their gross wages, such as the amount of their health insurance premium their employer pays, and their employer's matching contribution to their 401(k) plan. Life insurance can help cover the income workers would miss if they lost those sources.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/life-insurance-vital-to-replace-income-pay-for-services-800322858.aspx Tue, 04 Jan 2011 16:08:12 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/new-years-resolution-staying-physically-fit-800294879.aspx Pursuing physical fitness is a popular New Year's resolution, but sticking to an exercise regimen may present difficulties.

The President's Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition's (PCFSN) website has a number of tips for those getting ready to start exercising during the new year. As with any health-related change, consumers should consult with their physician, the group said.

When picking activities, the PCFSN said choosing exercises that are enjoyable will make it easier to stick to a new physical fitness plan. Furthermore, those embarking on a new routine should try to switch things up a little and include friends and family.

"It won't be easy, especially at the start," the PCFSN's website said. "But as you begin to feel better, look better and enjoy a new zest for life, you will be rewarded many times over for your efforts."

Eating properly is another New Year's resolution that can help maintain health. Experts recommend pursuing a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, grains and low-fat dairy. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/new-years-resolution-staying-physically-fit-800294879.aspx Wed, 15 Dec 2010 22:51:51 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/changing-retirement-age-worries-baby-boomers-800300274.aspx Costs that have rapidly outpaced the government's ability to fund Social Security have some baby boomers worried they will not be able to retire as early as hoped, according to a report from ABC News.

David Certner, legislative director for the American Association of Retired People, says a better idea would be to raise the wage cap, meaning fewer wealthy Americans would be eligible for the program at all, the news network says.

"For people who are older, it's more difficult to find a job, or, if you've been working and get laid off, to get re-hired," Certner tells ABC. He also cites age discrimination as a potential issue.

The economic downturn has made it difficult for many baby boomers to keep their retirement plans on track. Making sure investments are properly diversified in order to provide protection against sudden market shifts is a key step to staying financially solvent in these turbulent times.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/changing-retirement-age-worries-baby-boomers-800300274.aspx Wed, 08 Dec 2010 13:53:19 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/popular-weight-loss-program-changes-plan-800294880.aspx The new year is right around the corner, meaning it's time for resolutions. Those who are looking to lose weight with a popular program may be in for a surprise.

Weight Watchers has become one of the most well-known weight loss programs programs available. Many have become familiar with the system of points allocated towards food items.

The revamped program doesn't treat a calorie from an apple the same as one from a candy bar. Under the revised plan, fruits and most vegetables don't have any points, allowing for unlimited consumption.

However, a person doesn't have to follow an established weight loss program to meet their goals. The Department of Agriculture's (USDA) food pyramid recommends how many servings from each food group people should eat. The USDA recommends adults eat two to three cups of vegetables and two cups of fruits per day, for example.

A healthy diet combined with exercise is a recipe for successful weight loss. Most experts agree a reduction of one to two pounds a week is ideal. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/popular-weight-loss-program-changes-plan-800294880.aspx Wed, 01 Dec 2010 22:54:39 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/dont-wait-to-start-new-years-resolutions-800294877.aspx Being mentally prepared to keep to New Year's resolutions is an essential step toward following through with goals.

According to experts from the University of Maryland (UM), setting goals at realistic levels is one of the ways to keep New Year's resolutions. Dr. Hinda Dubin, an assistant professor at the school, noted taking immediate action will also help.

"Action precedes motivation, not the other way around," Dubin said. "People often think that they should wait until they are motivated to start doing something good for themselves."

While backsliding may feel like a defeat, UM experts say mistakes should be treated as a time to learn. Furthermore, people who have made New Year's resolutions should periodically assess where they are in the process and adjust as they continue on.

A variety of experts agree telling other people about New Year's resolutions can make it easier to keep them. Making friends and family aware could dissuade people from going back on promises. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/dont-wait-to-start-new-years-resolutions-800294877.aspx Wed, 01 Dec 2010 22:39:18 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/new-years-resolution-tips-to-quit-drinking-800294876.aspx While the holiday itself is often associated with alcohol, some may choose to reduce or quit drinking as a New Year's resolution.

The first thing to do when quitting drinking is writing down all the reasons for doing so, including a desire for better health or improving relationships, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).

Next, those wishing to quit should decide how much they want to cut back. The NIAAA said women should have no more than one drink a day, while men should limit themselves to two.

"These limits may be too high for some people who have certain medical problems or who are older," the NIAAA website said. "Talk with your doctor about the limit that is right for you."

Like many New Year's resolutions, attempting to quit drinking may be helped by writing down particular goals. Furthermore, the NIAAA said keeping little to no alcohol at home is another important step for those trying to abstain.

Those quitting smoking may also find benefits from following a similar set of steps to complete their New Year's resolution. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/new-years-resolution-tips-to-quit-drinking-800294876.aspx Wed, 01 Dec 2010 22:30:16 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/new-years-resolution-quitting-smoking-800294875.aspx Quitting smoking may be a difficult New Year's resolution, given the addictive nature of nicotine.

However, smokefree.gov notes there are steps smokers can take to help them through the process. The first thing they should do is set a date, and New Year's Day is one of the options suggested. Others include birthdays, anniversaries or Independence Day.

Having decided to quit, smokers should tell others about their plans. Doing so can provide additional support from friends and family, while also giving them fair warning about the accompanying mood swings.

According to the website, smokers who quit tend to relapse in the first three months.

"Your first three months may be hard. You may be more tempted when you are stressed or feeling down," the site said. "It's hard to be ready for these times before they happen."

However, keeping a craving journal ahead of time may help. Knowing when they may want a cigarette most might help smokers prepare for the situation.

There may be other options, including medicines designed to help quit smoking. As with any medication, however, consumers are urged to consult with their physicians. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/life-insurance-news/new-years-resolution-quitting-smoking-800294875.aspx Wed, 01 Dec 2010 22:27:22