Article sponsored by VSP Individual Vision Plans

If you’re like most Americans over 50, you plan to work after retirement in some capacity. You may even be considering changing the way you work and going into business for yourself. Where once that would have been considered a dream job and beyond the realm of reality, thanks to advances in technological innovation, it’s not so remote an idea to work “remotely”. Here are a few reasons why the solo workforce isn’t a fad:

Mobile and online applications use of cloud computing make it easier than ever to work from home or anywhere. Your “opening act” into the workforce probably involved being tied to a traditional work arrangement. You may have worked in an office or a school. But your “second act” need not tie you to any specific location, allowing you more flexibility and time for the important things in life like time with your grandkids.

Apps like Experfy, Handy and 99designs make it easy to source services and products in an instant from people in the area and around the globe. A 2015 report from the Freelancers Union and Upwork found that 51% of the freelancers surveyed had gotten a project online, up from 42% the year prior. The technology empowers you to get into business with little or no infrastructure investment, and turns anyone with a mobile device or computer into a potential customer. It really has never been easier to be self-employed, even if just part time.

If the idea of owning your own business and being your own boss appeals to you, also consider what goes into being a good boss. A good boss makes sure their employees (or they, themselves) get the insurance coverage they need to live healthy and productive lives. For example, one aspect of coverage all too often overlooked is vision care.

“Astoundingly, 50% of Americans don’t have vision coverage.”

Thanks to Individual Vision Plans from VSP the national leader in eye-care benefits, people who work for themselves can now get the same great benefits and savings as they would if they were covered under an employer’s plan.

As we age, it’s more important than ever to take good care of our eyes, as clear vision impacts quality of life. From increased work productivity to fewer headaches from eye strain, the benefits of healthy eyes cannot be overstated. Annual comprehensive eye exams aren’t just about vision. They also give your eye doctor a full view of blood vessels and arteries, areas that provide clues about your overall health.

But, astoundingly, 50% of Americans don’t have vision coverage, many of whom are self-employed and may not know how reasonable the cost of such coverage can be, or how much money it can save you in the long run.

VSP Individual Vision Plans are available for as low as $17/month and coverage under annual benefits includes:

o   A comprehensive eye exam

o   Prescription lenses with covered lens enhancements

o   A generous allowance for frames and/or contacts

o   A wide selection of designer frames

o   Access to a network of more than 36,000 doctors

Visit vspdirect.com for more details or to enroll in an individual vision plan today.

Don’t wait to start living your dream with your eyes wide open!

If you enjoyed this story, please subscribe to my email list. Once a day, when I post a new story, you will receive it in your inbox

If you have something to say going solo in the workforce let’s talk! I want so much to hear your opinions + feelings. I also want you to speak up so that women our age remain visible. I think we have a responsibility to share our wisdom, don’t you? Share yours either in the comments below or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.