Delta Pulse

Studying abroad is one of the most formative investments a family can make. The financial side, however, often gets less attention than it deserves. In the most recent academic year, 298,180 U.S. students studied abroad for academic credit, a 6 percent increase from the prior year. They spent their semesters across more than 170 destinations worldwide. While those students share many of the same types of enriching experiences, what varies is how prepared their families were financially to give them the opportunity.

Graduation season is one of the most emotionally charged times of the year for families. But beneath the caps, gowns, and celebrations, something happens financially that often goes unexamined: for parents who have been paying college tuition, a recurring expense is about to disappear.

The U.S. is in the middle of a sustained demographic shift. More than 61 million adults are aged 65 and older as of 2025, and that number is projected to reach approximately 82 million by 2050. Every day until 2030, roughly 10,000 Baby Boomers will turn 65. A continuing care retirement community, also known as a life plan community, is an integrated system that provides independent living with on-campus access to assisted living, memory care services, and skilled nursing as a resident's needs change over time.

As we begin a new year and consider the opportunities ahead, reflecting on the past year helps put today’s financial landscape into perspective and informs the strategies that can move us closer to our goals.

Year-End Giving Strategies: Tax-Smart and Impactful. A third of annual donations: About one-third of all charitable contributions are made in December. Donating before December 31 may offer tax advantages. New rules starting in 2026 (via the OBBB Act) may affect deductions for high earners and corporations.

Year-end holidays may be a good time to initiate a discussion about financial matters that may impact your family. If you have adult children, you may want to discuss your financial situation, estate strategy, and legal preparations for the future with them.