Financial provider VitalityLife has launched a risk tool which it believe will help financial advisers discuss with clients the possibility of dying before retirement.

The calculator will also offer guidance on healthier lifestyle steps which may help cut down on the risk of serious illness or death.

 The quick Risk Calculator is designed to help advisers discuss the “sensitive” subject of clients experiencing a serious illness – or possibly dying – before they retire, says the firm.

In less than a minute, the calculator should produce a personalised risk report based on age, gender and smoker status.

It shows the percentage likelihood of being unable to work for one month or more through ill-health, the percentage likelihood of experiencing a serious illness and also the risk of dying.

It also calculates how these percentages could improve if the client engages in a healthier lifestyle.

As well as personal risk, the calculator can also assess business risk, which focuses on the business owner or key employees.

Deepak Jobanputra, deputy chief executive at VitalityLife, said: “By better understanding the risks, advisers can highlight the importance of having cover and make sure their clients have the appropriate financial protection in place.

“We want to be there to pay claims and provide support, but we also want to ensure our members enjoy the benefits of staying healthy too, whether they make a claim or not.”