Most people dream of retiring early so they could get more out of life later on. While there's nothing inherently wrong with that setup, a new study suggests that retiring late could be a better option.
The Longer, The Better
A newly-released study on the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that people who retire beyond the age of 65 tend to live longer than mandatory retirees. After analyzing data from 2,956 senior citizens, researchers from Oregon State University concluded that people who retired at age 66 are 11 percent less likely to succumb to illnesses than those who retired at age 65.
The risk of dying further decreases the longer people postpone their retirement. Those who retired at aged 67, 70 and 72 were 21 percent, 44 percent and 56 percent less likely to die than those who retired at age 65.
The benefits of late retirement occurred regardless of gender, occupation and lifestyle. Even late retirees who had a preexisting health conditions had a lower risk of dying than mandatory retirees.
Fox News explained that late retirement delays the body's natural decline since it keeps the body in shape both physically and mentally for a few more years. It also reduces the risk of age-related chronic illnesses.
Physical Activity
Late retirement isn't necessarily the main reason why some retirees live longer than others. What it all comes down to is physical activity.
Late retirees just tend to be more physically active than mandatory retirees. Those who retire early can still enjoy a long and fulfilling retirement as long as they adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Web MD noted that physical activity can range from gardening to light workouts at the gym. The key is to choose the right physical activity and be active whenever possible, but not to extreme levels.
Emotional Health
Another reason why late retirees tend to live longer is that they are surrounded by workmates. People who feel they belong in a group usually thrive than those who feel isolated.
Early retirees should realize that emotional health is important too. Keeping in touch with friends, family, and the community is highly-recommended once people retire.
