As life expectancies continue to rise, more and more people are finding themselves living longer than they had planned for financially. This can lead to a significant amount of stress, as retirees may find themselves struggling to make ends meet.
To keep it impartial, we commissioned a freelance property writer and facilitated direct access for her to the financial advisor and daughter of the two clients. This was the result:
Contributing factors to the stress burden of living longer
There are a number of factors that contribute to this stress burden and one of the biggest challenges is the rising cost of living. In recent years, the cost of housing, healthcare, and other essential expenses has increased at a rate that has outpaced inflation. This means that retirees have to spend a larger portion of their income on basic necessities, leaving less money for discretionary spending.
Another challenge is the decline in pension benefits, often being the primary source of income for many retirees, which have not kept pace with inflation. This means that retirees are also receiving less money in real terms than they did in the past, which can make it difficult to make ends meet.
The stress of living longer can have a number of negative consequences and lead to anxiety, depression, and physical health problems. It can also make it difficult to enjoy retirement, as pensioners may constantly worry about money.
Taking action
If you are concerned about these financial challenges, there are some things you can do to prepare like saving more sooner giving your money more time to grow. You should also make sure to choose investments that are appropriate for your age and risk tolerance. In addition, you should also make sure you have a plan for healthcare costs, which may require purchasing additional insurance cover, or saving more in a medical savings account.
Finally, you should also make sure to have a plan for long-term care. Long-term care can be very expensive, and it is important to have a plan in place in case you need it. This can be provided by family members or paid caregivers, but either way, it could be expensive.
Living longer can be a challenge, but it is important to remember that there are steps you can take to prepare and enjoy your golden years to the fullest.
Here are some other tips for reducing the stress:
- Consider downsizing your home or earning income from it e.g. renting out a cottage if you have one. This can save operating, utilities and property tax costs.
- Move to a less expensive area – this can save you money on housing, food, and other expenses.
- Get a part-time job to help supplement your retirement income and reduce your stress levels.
- Volunteering is a great way to stay active, meet new people, and give back to your community. It can also help you reduce stress and improve well-being.
Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are all important for maintaining your health in retirement. This can help you reduce your healthcare costs and improve your quality of life.
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The stress burden of living longer than planned for financially is a real concern for many people but it is possible to alleviate some of this stress. By starting early and considering all available options, people can ensure that they are financially prepared for a long and healthy retirement.
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The Water Financial Team
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