Delaying retirement is one of the best methods for preventing cognitive impairment. Additionally, delaying retirement will allow you to save less money for retirement in your middle years and likely work less hours, opening more time for emotional wellbeing and exercise. The extra compound interest earning time at the end of the savings period will have the most profound effect on the total money available at retirement apart from very early in life savings. Retirement savings replacement with life insurance to guard against accidental death near typical retirement age will protect your family from a retirement savings shortfall. Below are some simple calculations to illustrate the powerful effect of delaying retirement. In this example a $500,000 term life insurance policy expiring at 70 or 75 is likely sufficient.
35 years old
35 years old
35 years old
Retirement age
67
77
77
annual savings
15,000
7,500
10,000
$ at retirement age
1,530,555
1,610,000
2,150,000
In the best-case scenario, this table represents working 3-4 days per week starting in middle age and freeing up 1-2 days per week to focus on emotional wellbeing, family, and exercise. This work schedule is then carried on to age 75+ to both gain the benefits of cognitive stimulation and avoidance of spending retirement savings until the gains can be realized.
Working 10 extra years is 2000 extra workdays when working 4 days a week. Working 4 days a week from 35-77 is 2100 extra days off to live your life while you are young and healthy.
