
The Importance of Critical Illness Insurance in Retirement Planning
There are a number of obstacles that could potentially de-rail a comfortable retirement. These include marriage breakdown, a stock market crash, and being sued. Another huge obstacle would be the diagnosis of a life threatening critical illness affecting you or your spouse. While it might be difficult to insulate yourself against some of the threats to retirement security, Critical Illness insurance goes a long way to mitigate the financial disaster that could result from a change in health as we approach retirement.
Considering that the wealth of many Canadians is comprised of the equity in their homes and the balance of their retirement plans, having to access funds to combat a dreaded illness could put their retirement objectives in jeopardy. Imagine that you are just a few years into or approaching retirement and you or your spouse suffers a stroke. The prognosis is for a long recovery and the cost associated with recovery and care is projected to be substantial. Statistics show that 62,000 Canadians suffer a stroke each year* with over 80% surviving* many of whom would require ongoing care. Since 80% of all strokes happen to Canadians over 60 those unlucky enough could definitely see their retirement funding jeopardized. Read more

Are You Ready To Deal With A Critical Illness?
Consider the following facts:
- 40% of Canadian women and 45% of men will develop cancer during their lifetime
- In 2005, cardiovascular disease (heart disease, diseases of the blood vessels and stroke) accounted for 31% of all deaths in Canada
Advances in medical science means that you have a better chance of surviving a critical illness. However, a critical illness often is accompanied by a huge financial burden to you and your family. Read more

Five Financial Products You Should Own
By Brenda Spiering, Editor, BrighterLife.ca
You don’t need to be born with a silver spoon in your mouth to build wealth. With the right products, you can grow and protect a healthy nest egg.
Here are five key financial products that should be part of your plan: Read more