August 22, 2024 – Welcome back after a long, relaxed summer break this year. Today’s post – suggested by a reader – deals with an intriguing question: how does early retirement impact my life expectancy? You see, since retiring six years ago, I’ve always assumed I’m doing my body a favor. I live a more relaxed life, exercise regularly, and sleep more every night. So, I’ve always believed my 2018 early retirement decision should improve my health and increase my life expectancy, right? Well, shockingly, the academic research on this topic is mixed. True, some studies seem to indicate early retirement reduces mortality. However, several studies point in the opposite direction. The commonly referenced rationale for this paradoxical result is that early retirees ostensibly often have reduced social contacts and physical and intellectual stimuli, increasing the risk for physical and mental decline.

Bummer! Was it a mistake to retire early? I did notice more gray hair in the last six years. Have you noticed a decline in my mental capacities? Am I becoming a curmudgeon? Be honest, everybody! Well, not so fast. There are many reasons not to be too concerned about (early) retirement’s alleged adverse health effects. Let’s take a look…

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