Most Americans Say They Hope They Die Before 100 as Retirement Costs Surge
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
As Americans confront the realities of longer life expectancies, a growing share would prefer not to see their 100th birthday.
A new study from the Nationwide Retirement Institute and the American College of Financial Services finds that only 29 percent of U.S. adults want to live to 100, with most citing fears about financial instability and deteriorating health in old age.
Among the top concerns: nearly three in four Americans fear they'll run out of money before they run out of time, according to the Nationwide Retirement Institute survey.
Why It Matters
The U.S. Census Bureau projects the number of centenarians will quadruple by 2054, raising urgent questions about how people will finance decades of retirement.
Yet most Americans are not planning for such longevity. Only 48 percent factor lifespan into their retirement decisions, while just 26 percent accurately estimate life expectancy for a 65-year-old man, ThinkAdvisor reported in a May 2025 analysis.
The lack of proper planning could leave millions exposed to financial difficulties late in life.
A sign with "DNR and DNI: Do Not Resuscitate and Do Not Intubate" is posted on a Coronavirus patient's bed in the extension of the Intensive Care Unit of the Serious Infectious Disease Unit in...
A sign with "DNR and DNI: Do Not Resuscitate and Do Not Intubate" is posted on a Coronavirus patient's bed in the extension of the Intensive Care Unit of the Serious Infectious Disease Unit in Edinburg, Texas, July 8, 2020. MoreReportage
What To Know
While only 29 percent of U.S. adults say they want to live to 100, according to the Nationwide Retirement Institute and the American College of Financial Services report, 59 percent of the 1,000 consumers surveyed still said that making it to 100 was a "blessing."
However, that number dropped to 55 percent among workers aged 55 to 65, and 45 percent said a lifespan reaching 100 was a "burden."
A joint study highlighted in Kiplinger explored the chances of financial shortfalls the older someone gets, noting that extending retirement by just five years—from 30 to 35 years—increases the risk of outliving savings by 41 percent using historical market returns. That risk climbs to over 300 percent with lower expected returns over the next decade.
Despite the financial risks, the uptake of solutions like annuities and long-term care insurance remains low.
While 32 percent of Americans believe long-term care coverage would be helpful for living to 100, only one in 10 actually own such a policy. Similarly, 31 percent say lifetime-guaranteed income would improve their financial outlook, but few invest in annuities, according to Kiplinger.
High inflation and surging home insurance premiums add strain for some retirement plans.
For baby boomers retiring now, fixed incomes may not be enough to absorb rising living costs, including housing-related expenses that have increased substantially in recent years, as HousingWire reports.
What People Are Saying
Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek: "I don't believe it is as much about the cost of living, but about the quality of life. So many of us have seen our parents die slowly whether it be through dementia or just illness. Many Americans, if guaranteed a healthy existence, would choose to live longer."
Drew Powers, the founder of Illinois-based Powers Financial Group, told Newsweek: "In planning for retirement, we should view longevity as the number one risk multiplier—every risk we face in retirement is exacerbated by living longer. Living just 5 extra years can triple your chances of running out of money in retirement, and that's a scary thought. Modern medicine is very good at extending our lives, but not necessarily improving the quality of our lives, especially in old age."
Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "As morbid of a topic as it is, more Americans than ever before are concerned about being able to financially support themselves with longer lifespans. Some baby boomers and those in Gen X are already encountering issues due to the higher cost of living and are coming to the realization retirement may have to be delayed. Those in younger generations are already feeling pricing pressure and are having to delay major life events and purchases because of it."
Michael Ryan, a finance expert and the founder of MichaelRyanMoney.com, told Newsweek: "Living to 100 looks great on a birthday cake, terrible on a financial statement. Why do only 29 percent of Americans want to hit the century mark? Because they've done the math. A 38-year retirement at $60k a year needs $2.3 million saved. Yet the average American has just $88,400 squirreled away. That's not a gap; it's a canyon."
What Happens Next
To adapt to the prospect of living to 100, financial advisers and institutions are urging a shift in mindset.
Innovations allowing workplace retirement plans to include guaranteed income solutions are gaining traction.
But experts warn that unless Americans start planning for longer lives now—incorporating realistic longevity assumptions, controlling debt, and boosting retirement savings—the growing population of centenarians may be financially worse off than ever.
"As centenarians become more common, their children and grandchildren are witnessing first-hand the money and health difficulties of living that long and concluding they themselves may be better off passing away just a bit earlier," Powers said.
"Social Security is already stressed. What will happen when the average beneficiary collects for 25 to 30 years versus today's 18- to 22-year average?"
Policy discussions are also intensifying, particularly around Social Security sustainability and incentivizing private long-term care insurance coverage. For many Americans, the challenge lies not in reaching 100 but in surviving it financially.
"This will put additional strain on the social security system as we have seen currently," Thompson said. "As more people age and live longer, there will need to be more people to fill the bucket. We are already seeing the stressors within the system, and just adding more will cause fractures."
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
42 minutes ago
- Yahoo
The Surprising Secrets Married Couples Keep From Each Other
In the storied dance of matrimony, many believe that honesty is the best policy. However, as any seasoned couple will tell you, some secrets might just be the glue that holds everything together. From unspoken indulgences to hidden fears, it turns out there's more beneath the surface of "I do" than meets the eye. Dive into this revealing exploration of the unexpected secrets even the happiest couples maintain, and perhaps find a glimmer of understanding-or mischief-of your own. In the realm of marriage, health is often a deeply personal affair that gets entangled with shared life. Quietly, many partners tuck away their health worries, choosing to deal with them alone. The reasons for this secrecy range from not wanting to worry the other to fearing loss of attraction. The silence can become a haven for anxiety, yet many choose to bear it alone, thinking their partner will remain blissfully unaware. This secret not only shelters vulnerability but also speaks volumes about trust and intimacy. Hiding health concerns can create an invisible wall that subtly shifts the dynamic between partners. It's an unspoken decision to shoulder the burden, either out of love or self-preservation. For some, it might even be a way to maintain control over a part of their life, especially if other areas feel shared or exposed. This secret carries a paradoxical weight, at once isolating and protective. Despite the underlying trust issues, couples often continue to function seamlessly, proving the resilience of marital bonds. In a world where "retail therapy" exists, it's no surprise that hidden shopping sprees are at the top of the secret list. Many partners confess to keeping their spending habits under wraps, casually omitting the details of their latest splurge. A study by found that 12 million Americans have a secret credit card or bank account from their partner. This financial infidelity can stem from a desire for independence or simply the thrill of a clandestine purchase. Surprisingly, these hidden expenses often remain undiscovered, blending seamlessly into the fabric of shared finances. What makes this secret intriguing is its potential to go unnoticed for years, sometimes even decades. Couples might be splitting bills while one partner enjoys the occasional covert indulgence. For some, this secret spending is less about deception and more about maintaining a sense of self in a shared life. The allure of a secret purchase can be intoxicating, offering a temporary escape from the routine confines of married life. In a marriage where transparency is touted as sacred, this hidden habit sparkles with quiet rebellion. Navigating relationships with in-laws can be as delicate as performing a duet on a tightrope. Many married individuals keep their candid opinions about their spouse's family tucked away, preferring peace over potential discord. Research from the University of Michigan suggests that close ties between in-laws and couples can reduce conflict but may also suppress honest opinions. The dichotomy is clear: fostering harmony often comes at the expense of personal truth. This secret, like a well-kept heirloom, is passed down through the generations of married life. The intricacies of family dynamics often make this a secret worth keeping. Voicing true feelings about in-laws can ripple out, affecting familial relationships and the marriage itself. Instead, many choose silence, opting for a façade of geniality that ensures family gatherings remain civil. The art of balancing genuine emotions with familial expectations becomes a performance in itself. This silent diplomacy, while exhausting, is a testament to the lengths couples will go to preserve the greater peace. Hidden behind the veil of routine and daily life, fantasies—whether mundane or wild—often remain unspoken. In the safety of their minds, many partners explore desires that might surprise even their closest confidants. These fantasies can range from the innocently romantic to the thrillingly adventurous, offering a mental escape from the everyday. The private world of unshared dreams is a garden where creativity and curiosity flourish unchecked. This space, though secret, is integral to the personal growth and satisfaction of an individual within a marriage. The decision to keep fantasies secret can stem from a fear of judgment or simply the desire to preserve a personal sanctuary. Sharing every whim might dilute their magic or, worse, open the door to misunderstandings. The allure of a private fantasy lies in its untouched nature, a place where reality doesn't have to intrude. However, this secrecy is not always a barrier; it can become a bridge, enhancing the allure of the person keeping it. The complexity of concealed fantasies is a testament to the multifaceted nature of love and attraction within marriage. It's not uncommon for partners to harbor secret regrets about choices made along the journey of life—choices that got them to where they are now. According to a study by Cornell University, regrets about education, career, and romance are the most common and can significantly affect one's psychological well-being. These regrets might not necessarily pertain to the marriage itself but to roads not taken or opportunities missed. Keeping such reflections hidden can stem from a desire to protect their partner from guilt or discomfort. The silence surrounding these regrets is often composed of layers of love, fear, and self-preservation. Navigating life with the weight of unspoken regrets can be a solitary journey within a partnership. This secret becomes a personal meditation on "what could have been," often juxtaposed with gratitude for what is. Partners might choose silence to shield their relationship from the corrosive nature of doubt and dissatisfaction. Every so often, these regrets surface in quiet moments, reframing the present with what-ifs and maybes. Yet, the decision to keep them secret underscores the complexity of balancing personal history with shared futures. In the tapestry of marriage, individuality is a thread that weaves in unexpected colors and patterns. Private hobbies and interests often remain undisclosed, quietly enriching the lives of those who cherish them. Whether it's a penchant for late-night poetry writing or a secret love for painting miniatures, these pursuits offer a private escape. The decision to keep them hidden might stem from a fear of judgment or simply a desire to maintain a piece of the self untouched by marital expectations. These secrets, while seemingly trivial, can be profoundly significant for personal fulfillment. The allure of a private hobby lies in its ability to nurture without the need for validation or approval. It becomes a sanctuary, where personal growth and satisfaction flourish in solitude. Some partners cherish these hidden interests as a way to maintain a sense of independence within a shared life. The quiet joy derived from these activities often spills over, subtly enhancing the relationship in unexpected ways. In the end, these secret passions are a testament to the resilience of individuality within the intricate dance of marriage. In the complex ballet of balancing personal and shared ambitions, career dreams often fade into the shadows, unspoken and secret. Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a clinical psychologist and professor at Northwestern University, notes that many individuals suppress career aspirations for the perceived greater good of the relationship. The reasons for keeping these ambitions secret range from fearing they might disrupt the status quo to worrying about their partner's reaction. These shelved dreams can simmer beneath the surface like a quiet undercurrent, influencing decisions and attitudes within the marriage. The tension between personal ambition and marital harmony is a delicate dance that many navigate in silence. The choice to conceal these ambitions can stem from a desire to avoid conflict or not appear ungrateful for the life shared. Over time, the secrecy can create a bittersweet undertone, where dreams are cherished yet unfulfilled. The narrative of a life lived for someone else's aspirations can become a silent refrain. Yet, this hidden yearning also speaks to the complexities of love and compromise that marriage entails. The decision to keep these ambitions secret reflects a nuanced understanding of partnership, where love sometimes demands silence. Raising children is often seen as a shared journey, yet many parents harbor concerns they never voice to their partner. These anxieties might stem from differing parenting philosophies or worries about the child's future. The decision to keep these concerns secret can arise from not wanting to undermine the other's confidence or ignite unnecessary conflict. The silent fretting becomes a personal vigil, where one watches and waits, hoping for reassurance without asking for it. This unspoken dialogue, while isolating, is a testament to the complexities of shared parenting. The weight of these concerns can shape interactions and decisions in subtle ways. Partners might adjust their behavior or make choices based on these secret worries, often without the other's knowledge. There is a strange comfort in keeping these thoughts private, as it allows for a quiet space to consider and reflect. Over time, this secret can create an invisible bond of understanding and empathy between partners. In the intricate world of parenting, unvoiced fears and hopes often speak louder than words. Personal growth is a journey that often doesn't fit neatly into the narrative of married life. Many partners embark on paths of self-discovery that remain undisclosed, nurturing growth that goes unnoticed. This can include anything from spiritual exploration to learning new skills or embracing new philosophies. Keeping this journey secret can stem from a desire for personal space or fear that the change might disrupt the relationship's equilibrium. This quiet evolution speaks to the resilience of individuality even within the most intertwined unions. The decision to keep personal growth secret can also reflect a desire to maintain a balance between independence and interdependence. Each step forward in secret becomes a private triumph, a testament to the human capacity for reinvention. This concealed development can, however, create a ripple effect, subtly influencing the dynamics of the relationship. Partners may find themselves shifting in response to unspoken changes, adapting to new rhythms without quite realizing why. In marriage, sometimes the most profound transformations are the ones that happen quietly, beneath the surface. The passage of time is an inescapable truth, yet many couples choose to keep their anxieties about aging to themselves. Concerns about physical appearance, health, and the inevitability of change often remain locked away. The decision to stay silent can stem from not wanting to appear vain or burden the other with worries about the future. This secret reflects the delicate dance between self-perception and how one is perceived by their partner. It underscores a universal truth: the fear of aging is a deeply personal journey. As partners navigate their timelines, these hidden stressors can quietly influence interactions and decisions. The silence becomes a shield, protecting vulnerability while allowing room for introspection. Over time, this unspoken tension can create an unacknowledged bond, where mutual understanding flourishes in the absence of words. The shared silence becomes a testament to the complexities of love, where some truths are understood without ever being spoken. In the intimate world of marriage, the fear of aging is a secret many choose to keep, whispering in the background. Jealousy, that age-old specter, often lurks in the shadows of even the most harmonious marriages. Many partners, despite their best efforts, harbor secret envies that they prefer to keep hidden. Whether it's about the other's success, friendships, or even attention from others, these feelings are often shrouded in silence. Keeping such emotions secret can stem from not wanting to appear insecure or disrupt the relationship's delicate balance. In the intricate dance of marriage, the silence around jealousy is a poignant reflection of love and vulnerability. These concealed envies can color interactions in subtle ways, influencing both behavior and perception. Partners might find themselves compensating for these feelings through actions that attempt to restore equilibrium. The secrecy creates a private arena where one grapples with emotions that speak to the core of human nature. In marriage, the silent acknowledgement of jealousy becomes a testament to the complexity of love, where the fear of loss is ever-present. The decision to keep these feelings hidden reflects a deep desire to protect the relationship from the corrosive potential of envy. Even in the most steadfast marriages, doubts about the relationship can linger in the shadows, unspoken and unseen. These reservations might crop up during challenging times or as part of natural introspection. Keeping such doubts secret can arise from not wanting to hurt the other or appear uncommitted. This silence becomes a protective mechanism, safeguarding the relationship from the potential fallout of vulnerability. Yet, it also speaks to the resilience of hope, where choosing to stay silent is an act of faith in the partnership. The decision to conceal these doubts creates a private dialogue, a quiet reflection on the nature of love and commitment. It becomes a personal exploration of what it means to be with someone for the long haul, through ups and downs. While these secrets might appear as cracks, they can also be seen as spaces for growth and understanding. The choice to keep them hidden reflects an intricate dance between fear and trust, where silence becomes an act of love. In marriage, sometimes the most profound conversations are the ones that happen quietly, within one's own heart. The future, with its vast uncertainty, often harbors fears that remain unacknowledged even within the closest marriages. Partners might worry about financial stability, health, or the unknowns that lie ahead, choosing to keep these apprehensions private. The decision to stay silent can stem from not wanting to burden the other with what-ifs or disrupt the present moment. This secret becomes a quiet meditation on the nature of time and the unpredictability of life. It underscores a universal truth: the future is a deeply personal journey, even when shared. As partners navigate their paths, these hidden fears can subtly influence decisions and priorities. The silence becomes a space for reflection, allowing room for personal growth within the safety of the relationship. Over time, this unspoken tension can create an unacknowledged bond where mutual understanding flourishes without the need for words. In the intimate world of marriage, the fear of the future becomes a quiet companion, whispering reminders of life's impermanence. The decision to keep these fears hidden reflects a delicate balance between hope and reality, where love finds its footing in the unknown.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
6 simple ways to protect your hearing now before it's too late, according to experts
Hearing loss is one of the most common conditions affecting older adults, with about one in three Americans between 65 and 74 affected, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). While some of this loss is due to the hair cells in the inner ears breaking down with age and not picking up vibrations as well, per WebMD, there are some risk factors that can be controlled with behavior modifications. Making small changes now can help protect your ears and hearing later in life, experts advise. Below are some practical tips you can start implementing today. Common Aging Symptom Could Worsen Loneliness In Seniors Whether it's a crowded concert, heavy traffic or the constant hum of power tools, repeated exposure to high noise levels is known to cause permanent damage to the delicate structures in the inner ear. One of the most effective ways to protect your hearing as you age is to limit your exposure to these loud environments, the NIH states. Read On The Fox News App Even small adjustments, like lowering the volume on your headphones or taking quiet breaks during a noisy event, can make a big difference over time. Damage to the inner ear can happen long before it shows up on a hearing test, according to the NIH, which means prevention is key. When loud situations are unavoidable, and you expect to be exposed for more than a few minutes, experts recommend wearing ear protection, such as foam earplugs or noise-canceling earmuffs. Foam earplugs are an affordable, easy-to-carry option that reduce noise by 15 to 30 decibels, WebMD states. Earmuffs, which cover the entire ear, offer similar protection and can be worn with earplugs for added defense. Some earplugs are designed to reduce sound evenly across all frequencies, making them ideal for musicians or anyone who wants clear but quieter audio. Just like dental cleanings or eye exams, regular hearing checkups are an important part of maintaining overall health. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults aged 50 through 64 should have their hearing screened by an audiologist every five years. Hearing exams are particularly important for those who have a family history of hearing loss, notice difficulty hearing conversations, have a high degree of noise exposure, often hear ringing in the ears or have no previous testing history. Your healthcare provider will assess how well your hearing is functioning and check for any early signs of hearing loss. Women May Hear Better Than Men, New Study Suggests "Screening doesn't always mean undergoing a full hearing test," Lindsay Creed, a Maryland audiologist and associate director of audiology practices at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), told Fox News Digital. "It can start with a few simple questions from your doctor during a routine physical, or even a short questionnaire as a first step." Smoking doesn't just affect your lungs and heart — it can also harm your hearing. According to a study conducted by the NIH, current smokers are 61% more likely to experience prevalent hearing loss compared to non-smokers. 'I'm A Neurologist — Here's Why Dementia Is Rising And How To Reduce Your Risk' The good news? Quitting makes a difference. Former smokers who quit for longer than five years reduced their risk to nearly as low as individuals who have never smoked, the same study found. Although hearing loss is common with age, it's not the only auditory issue. According to the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons), conditions like tinnitus, which often peaks between age 60 and 69, can also develop. Tinnitus causes persistent sounds such as ringing, hissing, buzzing or whooshing in the ears. Most cases are linked to sensorineural hearing loss, the type that typically occurs with age, the American Tinnitus Association notes. While there's no cure, various treatments can help reduce the impact of symptoms. Another condition that becomes more common with age is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which causes brief but intense episodes of dizziness, according to Mayo Clinic. This occurs when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear shift out of place. Click Here To Sign Up For Our Health Newsletter Audiologist Lindsay Creed noted that head trauma is usually the cause in younger people, but in those over 50, natural age-related changes in the inner ear are more likely the culprit. Once someone experiences BPPV, future episodes become more likely. The condition can often be treated with a simple in-office maneuver performed by a medical professional to reposition the crystals, although Creed advises against attempting it at home without guidance. Many drugs are known to cause impaired hearing, including some cancer medications and antibiotics, according to WebMD. For more Health articles, visit If you take a prescription medication, experts recommend checking with your physician to ensure that it isn't known to impact ear article source: 6 simple ways to protect your hearing now before it's too late, according to experts
Newsweek
2 hours ago
- Newsweek
The Bulletin June 12, 2025
The rundown: With labor market uncertainty, jobs rewarding employees for "going the extra mile" and competing responsibilities inside and outside the workplace, a growing number of Americans are suffering from what experts refer to as "time poverty." Learn more about what it means. Why it matters: The term has been increasingly adopted by psychologists to denote the chronic imbalance between the time a person needs and that which their work life allows them. A new survey by wellness firm Wondr Health revealed the extent of the issue, finding that the majority (62 percent) of U.S. workers do not take their allotted time off because of the internalized pressures of work and let about one-third of their annual vacation days go unspent. Read more in-depth coverage: Trump-Era Economic Shifts Driving Up U.S. Worker Stress Levels TL/DR: "No one is harder on most of us than ourselves and it leads to time poverty, a condition where we simply do not have enough time for a meaningful work-life balance," said Dr. Tim Church, chief medical officer at Wondr Health. What happens now? Experts pointed to the need for allotted "mental health days," as well as the willingness of businesses to invest in employee wellness programs and foster open communication with their workforces. Deeper reading Americans Are Suffering From 'Time Poverty'
