Alyssa Brierley, Executive Director of the National Institute on Aging at Toronto Metropolitan University, discusses the evolving concept of retirement in Canada, addressing financial worries, changing attitudes towards retirement readiness, income inadequacy, and challenges faced by older Canadians in the workforce. Insights highlight the need for individuals to prepare for various expenses as they age, advocate for flexible work arrangements, and emphasize the importance of age-inclusive workplaces.
Retirement now involves prolonged workforce engagement beyond 65, reflecting evolving preferences and extended life expectancy.
Financial concerns plague Canadian over-50s, with adequacy of savings, inflation worries, and rise in living costs impacting retirement readiness.
Deep dives
Evolution of Retirement Concept
The concept of retirement has evolved significantly, no longer resembling the traditional view of retiring at 65 to sip cocktails on the beach due to increased life expectancy. Many individuals now prefer to continue working past retirement age according to Stats Canada, highlighting a shift in retirement preferences towards more active and prolonged engagement in the workforce.
Financial Concerns and Retirement Planning
Canadian over-50s express major financial concerns regarding retirement, with worries about inflation, running out of money, and the affordability of long-term care. Despite 35% feeling financially prepared to retire, a significant portion are uncertain or unable to retire comfortably due to factors like the rising cost of living. Understanding personal expenses and financial literacy play crucial roles in adequately planning for retirement.
Challenges and Flexibility in Retirement Planning
As people live longer lives and face economic uncertainties, planning for retirement becomes complex with no fixed 'magic number' for savings due to various personal factors. Flexibility and adaptability in career paths are increasingly important, supported by workplace reforms to accommodate older workers through part-time opportunities, phased retirement, and policy shifts promoting age inclusion and financial security.
A 44-year-old listener named Brian is wondering if retirement is a reality for him. And if it is, what that retirement will look like. Is it the image of cocktails on the beach and days spent playing golf that many of us associate with this stage of life? Or is it something a little different?
Jordan speaks with Alyssa Brierley, Executive Director of the National Institute on Aging at Toronto Metropolitan University to help define what retirement looks like in this era.
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