New Global Survey Highlights Need for Integrated Health and Financial Support
In an increasingly complex world, navigating the intersections of health, finances, and protection has emerged as a significant challenge for many individuals. According to a groundbreaking survey released by Sun Life Financial, a striking 65% of respondents indicated a desire for integrated support systems that address these interconnected aspects of their lives. This need for connected support is particularly pressing as managing health and financial responsibilities has become increasingly complicated compared to five years ago.
The survey findings underscore a substantial gap in preparedness amidst the rising complexity of these areas. Over half of the participants—52%—reported that managing their finances has become more difficult, while a similar percentage—51%—expressed that their health management has also grown more intricate. This complexity underscores the critical need for holistic financial and health planning services.
Significantly, 61% of those surveyed acknowledged that their health status could significantly impact their financial situation, while 59% observed the reverse—that financial pressures could adversely affect their health. Despite this awareness, the study revealed that only a small fraction of respondents have taken comprehensive steps to safeguard their future.
Notably, although 61% recognized the importance of protecting against unexpected medical costs due to illness or accidents, merely 33% reported having a complete plan in place. Likewise, while 60% felt securing their family's future in the event of unforeseen circumstances was crucial, only around 31% have established comprehensive safety nets to ensure that security.
These findings were part of Sun Life’s most extensive global survey to date, which assessed attitudes and preparedness across eight diverse markets: Canada, the United States, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. The results reflect a common sentiment: people increasingly recognize the interconnected nature of their health and financial decisions, yet many lack the necessary integrated support or definitive plans to navigate their futures confidently.
Kevin Strain, President and CEO of Sun Life, remarked, “This research shows that clients want us to understand the full picture and make it easier for them to act. Helping individuals bridge the gap between intention and action is a vital aspect of Sun Life’s mission to support clients in achieving lifetime financial security and leading healthier lives.”
Furthermore, the survey highlighted a critical disconnect regarding caregiving responsibilities. A significant 57% of respondents deemed it essential to be financially equipped to care for aging or ill family members. Despite this sentiment, only 27% had implemented comprehensive plans to fulfill that responsibility. Similar concerns were voiced in relation to retirement planning; while 56% of individuals felt having a structured retirement plan was vital, only 31% took steps toward developing such a plan.
The results illustrate that many individuals grapple with not only understanding what is essential but also how to take actionable steps toward those priorities. A large majority of respondents—71%—stated they would feel more secure about their future if managing their finances were easier. Additionally, 75% believed they would gain confidence from having access to trustworthy financial planning advice.
The survey also exposed a disparity between the legacies people wish to leave and the practical planning measures they have enacted. While 59% of respondents expressed the significance of providing a secure financial future for their families, only 53% felt they were on track to accomplish this. Alarmingly, only 37% had designated beneficiaries for their accounts or insurance, a mere 26% had documented a will, and 24% had consulted a financial advisor.
In recognition of these pressing needs, Sun Life has introduced a refreshed brand identity, including a modernized logo and a new tagline, “Making life brighter.” This branding evolution reflects a focus on merging Sun Life’s strengths in asset management, health, and protection services into a more streamlined and accessible experience for clients.
As many individuals continue to feel underprepared for key life moments, the surveyed findings drive home the importance of support that encompasses all areas of health and financial protection. As financial pressures often correlate with health challenges and vice versa, the demand for integrated services has never been more crucial.
In conclusion, empowering clients to take action and equipping them with the tools to navigate life’s uncertainties is vital for enhancing their confidence and overall well-being. By focusing on connected support and actively addressing client needs, Sun Life aims to forge deeper relationships and solidify their role in making clients’ lives brighter. For more detailed insights on the research and to explore Sun Life’s new offerings, visit their official website at sunlife.com.
About the Research: This extensive survey was conducted among adult participants in eight countries through an online medium from September 10 to 25, 2026. Sample sizes varied by country, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of diverse perspectives on health and financial integration.
The survey findings underscore a substantial gap in preparedness amidst the rising complexity of these areas. Over half of the participants—52%—reported that managing their finances has become more difficult, while a similar percentage—51%—expressed that their health management has also grown more intricate. This complexity underscores the critical need for holistic financial and health planning services.
Significantly, 61% of those surveyed acknowledged that their health status could significantly impact their financial situation, while 59% observed the reverse—that financial pressures could adversely affect their health. Despite this awareness, the study revealed that only a small fraction of respondents have taken comprehensive steps to safeguard their future.
Notably, although 61% recognized the importance of protecting against unexpected medical costs due to illness or accidents, merely 33% reported having a complete plan in place. Likewise, while 60% felt securing their family's future in the event of unforeseen circumstances was crucial, only around 31% have established comprehensive safety nets to ensure that security.
These findings were part of Sun Life’s most extensive global survey to date, which assessed attitudes and preparedness across eight diverse markets: Canada, the United States, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. The results reflect a common sentiment: people increasingly recognize the interconnected nature of their health and financial decisions, yet many lack the necessary integrated support or definitive plans to navigate their futures confidently.
Kevin Strain, President and CEO of Sun Life, remarked, “This research shows that clients want us to understand the full picture and make it easier for them to act. Helping individuals bridge the gap between intention and action is a vital aspect of Sun Life’s mission to support clients in achieving lifetime financial security and leading healthier lives.”
Furthermore, the survey highlighted a critical disconnect regarding caregiving responsibilities. A significant 57% of respondents deemed it essential to be financially equipped to care for aging or ill family members. Despite this sentiment, only 27% had implemented comprehensive plans to fulfill that responsibility. Similar concerns were voiced in relation to retirement planning; while 56% of individuals felt having a structured retirement plan was vital, only 31% took steps toward developing such a plan.
The results illustrate that many individuals grapple with not only understanding what is essential but also how to take actionable steps toward those priorities. A large majority of respondents—71%—stated they would feel more secure about their future if managing their finances were easier. Additionally, 75% believed they would gain confidence from having access to trustworthy financial planning advice.
The survey also exposed a disparity between the legacies people wish to leave and the practical planning measures they have enacted. While 59% of respondents expressed the significance of providing a secure financial future for their families, only 53% felt they were on track to accomplish this. Alarmingly, only 37% had designated beneficiaries for their accounts or insurance, a mere 26% had documented a will, and 24% had consulted a financial advisor.
In recognition of these pressing needs, Sun Life has introduced a refreshed brand identity, including a modernized logo and a new tagline, “Making life brighter.” This branding evolution reflects a focus on merging Sun Life’s strengths in asset management, health, and protection services into a more streamlined and accessible experience for clients.
As many individuals continue to feel underprepared for key life moments, the surveyed findings drive home the importance of support that encompasses all areas of health and financial protection. As financial pressures often correlate with health challenges and vice versa, the demand for integrated services has never been more crucial.
In conclusion, empowering clients to take action and equipping them with the tools to navigate life’s uncertainties is vital for enhancing their confidence and overall well-being. By focusing on connected support and actively addressing client needs, Sun Life aims to forge deeper relationships and solidify their role in making clients’ lives brighter. For more detailed insights on the research and to explore Sun Life’s new offerings, visit their official website at sunlife.com.
About the Research: This extensive survey was conducted among adult participants in eight countries through an online medium from September 10 to 25, 2026. Sample sizes varied by country, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of diverse perspectives on health and financial integration.
Topics Financial Services & Investing）
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