2026 Winter Newsletter: Kansas City

A Thoughtful Start to 2026

Winter has a way of slowing things down. The calendar turns, the pace softens, and there’s a natural invitation to pause, especially as we step into a new year. While January often comes with pressure to make bold resolutions, I’ve found that the most meaningful progress usually starts with quieter reflection.

As we enter 2026, many retirees and families are navigating a season of transition. Work rhythms have changed or disappeared altogether. Roles within families evolve. Priorities shift. And the question becomes less about “what’s next?” and more about “how do I want this next chapter to feel?”

That’s where good planning lives.

In this winter edition of the Elevated Insider, we focus on two areas that don’t always get enough attention in traditional retirement conversations, but matter deeply to long-term well-being: how we use the resources we already have, and how we communicate our intentions to the people we love.

For many retirees, home equity represents far more than a line item on a balance sheet. It’s flexibility. It’s optionality. It’s a tool that when thoughtfully integrated can support cash flow, reduce stress during market volatility, help fund care needs, or simply provide peace of mind. Understanding how (and if) home equity fits into your broader retirement plan can make the difference between feeling boxed in and feeling empowered.

Equally, but often harder, is the human side of planning. Conversations with adult children about aging, independence, and future care can feel uncomfortable, which is why they’re so often delayed. Yet clarity shared today can spare families uncertainty and emotional strain important tomorrow. These discussions aren’t about giving up control; they’re about preserving dignity, honoring values, and making things easier for the people who may one day support you.

As 2026 begins, our encouragement is simple: don’t rush past this moment. Use the season and the new year as an opportunity to realign. Revisit what ‘enough’ looks like now. Consider where flexibility would bring peace of mind. And think about the conversations that, while not urgent, are deeply important.

Planning isn’t just about preparing for worst-case scenarios. At its best, it helps you live well, confident that your resources, relationships, and intentions are working together. Here’s to a thoughtful start to the year ahead.