The cost of living beyond 100

The World Economic Forum recently published a discussion paper titled, “We’ll Live to 100. How Can We Afford It?” It makes the case that, with lifespans increasing and fewer companies providing pension plans, many people may face a retirement savings gap. Here are a few ways your clients can make sure the math works for retirement.

Push for deferred annuities. Writing for the National Post, Wanda Morris, VP of Advocacy for CARP, explains the concept of deferred annuities. Although such annuities aren’t yet available in Canada, she argues they provide a kind of “long-life insurance” at a reasonable cost. “Canadian regulators,” she concludes, “need to license the sale of deferred annuities now.”

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Know the true value of that business. Entrepreneur guest writer Michael Carter argues that business owners who are counting on their businesses to fund retirement must have a proper valuation if they are to implement an effective exit plan.

Turn your passions into income. This Next Avenue article by Nancy Collamer makes the case that for some clients, pursuing their passions and hobbies in retirement doesn’t necessarily involve spending money – it might actually help line their pockets. From walking dogs to running foodie tours, she argues, part-time gigs can be both financially and personally rewarding.

Build a granny pod. Some retirees are turning to specially built “granny pods” as a home solution that allows them to age in place while keeping costs low, according to Katie Young and Jane Wells of CNBC. The 400 square-foot micro-homes fit into most backyards and have all the trimmings of a real house, allowing for multi-generational living and downsizing.

Don’t worry so much. When the Globe and Mail’s Rob Carrick asked current retirees for their take on the biggest surprises since leaving the workforce, one respondent suggested relaxing a little about the money and trusting that there’d be plenty to do. So, for clients unduly stressing about the next phase, hakuna matata might be appropriate advice.