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Reading:Longevity Upends Traditional Financial Planning: MIT AgeLab Study
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The fact that Americans are living longer has made the typical approach to financial planning less than ideal. New study by MIT AgeLab and Transamerica surveyed nearly 1,200 people and 10 focus groups. They conclude that the traditional three-part plan of education, work, and retirement, and one aimed at ensuring people can live comfortably in retirement, fails to take into account the increasing longevity of Americans. Instead, the researchers who wrote the report advocate focusing on three factors: well-being, work, and finances as three key stages of adulthood.
Americans live much longer Average life expectancy increased from 68 years in 1950 to almost 79 years in 2009. Longer life expectancy means longer retirement periods. While men who retired in 1970 had less than 13 years to retire, the average retirement time for men in 2020 was almost 19 years. A person turning 65 in 2023 has about a 50% chance of living another 20 years.
This trend is expected to continue. As of 2020, there are approximately 92,000 people in their 80s in the United States, but that number is expected to nearly triple within 25 years, totaling 270,000 Americans over the age of 100 by 2045. That means if they stop working at age 67, they could have up to 33 years in retirement.
To get a sense of how long 33 years is, consider that in 1990, George HW Bush was president, Madonna was number one on the music charts, and the number one TV show was ‘Cheers.’
“Americans are generally optimistic about their future, but they may not fully appreciate how much their financial needs, priorities, and living circumstances will change over time,” said Dr. Joseph Coughlin, director of the MIT AgeLab. “More than ever before, planning for a long life means understanding what is most important at each stage of adulthood, finding balance, and supporting those priorities with actions and actions that lead to a better future.”
“The way we approach life and the way we work is changing,” said Phil Eckman, President of Workplace Solutions at Transamerica. “People want flexibility and choice in all areas of their lives, at work and at home.”
Traditional financial planning is built around relatively short time periods by today’s standards. retirement. This meant leisure became the focus and creating a suitable nest egg to fund what now appears to be a relatively short retirement. However, now that the length of retirement has increased significantly, this stage of life is more dynamic rather than solely focused on leisure.
“Old age is a time when customers begin to celebrate their savings goals, such as dream vacations or being able to spend more time with family, but it is still a time when many people should be prepared to live for decades more,” the report concludes. I built it. .
This means retirees can use it. Financial Advisor as Coach It’s about understanding the complexities of this stage of life. They can also help you understand the different ways you can “prioritize your social, emotional and physical well-being in relation to your financial or work-related goals over the next decade,” according to the report.
If you would like to speak to a fiduciary financial advisor, connect with: This free tool.
A man in his early 50s thinking about retirement
Midlife adults face complex and emotional challenges, from trying to advance their careers to caring for children and parents. Despite these challenges, it is not surprising that this group reported the lowest rates of exercise and said they ate healthy foods less often than any other age group. One implication is that this group of people will need to work with a financial advisor to align their priorities so they can take care of themselves financially and in other ways.
“Financial professionals can serve as agenda-setters for midlife clients and help them anticipate the future. for future needs, challenges and celebrations,” the report said. “For example, financial professionals can support clients in their current caregiving role while also helping them anticipate when they may need care themselves in the future.”
The study also found that this group tends to be motivated to invest in their own wellbeing, build careers in the short and long term, and start new jobs. Saving for major financial goals.
Young adults can benefit from using the advice of a financial advisor to adopt new habits, routines, and attitudes that will help them prepare for the near and distant future. You should also work with a financial advisor to create an appropriate emergency fund and build your net worth.
Young woman talking with financial advisor.
retirement It’s not just about money. Longer lifespans mean retirement is much more dynamic than the leisure focus of our parents and grandparents. Increasingly, it’s about overall well-being. This includes having a decent nest egg, but it’s increasingly about relationships, personal goals, health, and career opportunities. The report found that receiving financial advice at each stage of adulthood is key to enjoying a retirement characterized by well-being.
Here’s one way to get help with your retirement planning: Working with a Financial Advisor We can answer all your questions about retirement options, including Social Security and Medicare. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be difficult. Free tools from SmartAsset We’ll connect you with up to three verified financial advisors covering your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor to decide which one we think might be right for you. If you are ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, Get started now.
Prepare an emergency fund in case unexpected expenses arise. Emergency funds should be liquid in accounts that are not subject to significant volatility, such as the stock market. The downside is that the value of liquid cash can be eroded by inflation. However, you can earn compound interest by using a high-interest account. Compare savings accounts from these banks.
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