The Reality of Longevity
Don’t get caught off guard by outliving your money!
When planning for retirement, it is essential to consider how long you and your partner may live. While it is a difficult concept to grasp, your starting point should be family life expectancy and medical history, followed by your own health and lifestyle choices.
Advancements in medical technology mean that global life expectancy has increased by more than 25 years over the past century—and it continues to climb. Experts suggest that the first person to live to 150 has already been born.
The South African Reality
This is not just a trend for developed markets; it is a reality for South Africans. Data from retirement specialists Just South Africa indicates a high probability that at least one member of a couple aged 65 will live into their mid-90s and beyond.
Reframing the “Line in the Sand”
We need to fundamentally rethink the traditional definition of retirement. Rather than a hard stop between the ages of 55 and 65, we should view these years as the start of next chapters.
- ✨ Plan for 100: Structure your finances for multiple life chapters.
- ✨ Global Trend: The UN recognizes increased longevity as a “human success story.”
- ✨ Sustainability: Financial security starts with a “Life to 100” plan.
You may live a lot longer than you planned for. Is your financial plan ready?
Created by: Wynand Gouws, CFP® | MBA
Wealth Manager, Gradidge Mahura Investments
Author of “Life to 100”
