We’re almost 19 years into the new century, so it seems a little late to be talking about the “new” 21^st century version of retirement. Or does it?

For those in their 50s or 60s approaching retirement, I don’t think so. If you’re getting close to retirement, you likely have parents who retired in the last century. Pre-internet, pre-smartphone, pre-Amazon delivery on demand. There’s a good chance that at least one parent is still alive, and, like it or not, our “vision” of retirement is shaped by those living it now.

And those living it now made retirement decisions based on life in the 20^th century. We may consciously want a different type of retirement, but subconsciously we can be influenced by our parent’s retirement path, whether we know it or not.

So, how could your retirement decisions be different than those of your parents? Here are a few things to consider.

• Shrinking distances: Many retirees want to be in close proximity to their children and grandchildren – and that has influenced many in choosing a home location, even within the same city. But the emergence of advancements like self-driving cars (coming soon), discount airlines, and video calls has made it easier to connect. You may have a much broader radius for home location than you think.
• Enhanced services: In today’s Amazon era, just about anything can be delivered to our doorstep. In Ontario, even the government-controlled liquor store can deliver to your home. This not only decreases your need to be living near certain retail locations, it could allow you to stay in your own home much longer than previous generations. Virtual health care (via text or video conference) has also emerged as a service that brings health care to you rather than the other way around.
• Longevity: Life expectancy gains have slowed a bit recently (as noted by the Canadian Investment Review) but lifespans continue to increase and medical advancements will continue to improve health as we age. For you, it means planning for a longer, healthier life (think 90s, not 80s). This fact can influence many factors, from ability to pursue a second career, to the asset allocation for your retirement savings, to your ability to gift money to family members during your lifetime.

The 21^st century has been with us for while – and there are more options out there than you may have realized for your retirement. Make sure your plans reflect it.

Thanks for reading!
Ian Hull