Recent figures from the World Health Organization indicate that U.S. adults can expect to live in full health for an average of 63.9 years. This data has prompted discussions among retirees and financial planners about the implications for retirement planning.
If an individual retires at age 65 and lives to 85, they will have approximately 1,040 weeks of retirement. However, health considerations suggest not all those weeks may be equally healthy or enjoyable.
Financial experts are noting that while wealth and income can continue to grow during retirement through compounding, the period of high physical activity is limited by natural aging. This has led to increased focus on optimizing the early years of retirement when health is typically better.
Several studies have shown that spending on experiences tends to provide greater satisfaction than acquiring material possessions. Activities such as scuba diving, long road trips, and family vacations are more feasible during periods of good health.
Bill Perkins, a hedge fund manager and author of "Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life," commented on this trend. "People who save tend to save too much for too late in their lives," Perkins wrote. "They are depriving themselves now just to care for a much, much older future self — a future self that may never live long enough to enjoy that money."
Financial planning services have reported increased interest in retirement budgeting strategies. Vanguard research found that individuals working with financial advisors saw nearly 3% higher net returns compared to those who didn't. Advisor.com has developed an AI-powered matching tool to connect individuals with FINRA/SEC-registered advisors.
Investment in precious metals has also gained attention as a potential hedge against market volatility. Gold prices reportedly increased by approximately 65% in 2025 during market fluctuations. American Hartford Gold offers gold IRA options that allow holding physical gold within retirement accounts.
Schroders research indicates that one in ten Americans delay retirement until age 70 to maximize Social Security payments. However, experts caution that excessive focus on maximizing savings risks sacrificing the potentially most rewarding early retirement years.
Emergency fund planning remains a priority, with experts recommending six to twelve months of expenses. Wealthfront Cash offers accounts with up to 3.90% APY, significantly higher than the national deposit savings rate of 0.39% reported by the FDIC in December.
Healthcare investment strategies include gym memberships, personal trainers, and dietary improvements. Research published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine shows resistance training can reduce all-cause mortality risk by 15%. A 2024 Nutrients journal study indicates Mediterranean diets may lower cardiovascular disease risk.
Senior organizations like AARP provide discounts on prescriptions, dental plans, travel, and insurance. Membership offers access to guides on Social Security, Medicare plans, and government benefits.