Life expectancy in the United States is 78-point-8 years, much higher than when the Social Security program began in 1935. At that time it was around 67 years, and people were expected to retire at 62. A-A-R-P C-E-O Jo Ann Jenkins says that means we need to rethink our finances so they will stretch for a few more years.
Jenkins is the author of the book “Disrupt Aging.” She says many people are skipping retirement and continuing to work because they’re healthier than in decades past. She adds older employees shouldn’t be judged by their age, but by the skills and experience they bring to the table.
Jenkins also points out that living extra years gives people the opportunity to do the things they’ve always dreamed of.
Jenkins spent last week in the Midwest talking to residents and challenging them to rethink their perceptions on aging. She says her mission is to get people to plan ahead for retirement by thinking of “health, wealth, and self.”