7 Unsettling Curveballs That Today’s Retirees Have Faced

Even the perfect retirement plan is likely to run into one of these obstacles.

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Chris Kissell •June 8, 2023

It is wise to plan for retirement. But it's also a mistake to think things will go exactly as you forecast.

A large majority of retirees — 69% of men and 81% of women — say they have experienced a major "curveball or cannonball" during their retirement, according to a recent survey of thousands of retirees by Age Wave and Edward Jones.

We all hope to avoid such unpleasant shocks, but the reality is that few of us will be so lucky. Learning more about the following surprises that today's retirees have faced can help you plan better for your own retirement.

Retirees who have experienced this event and described it as extremely disruptive: 77%

Few things in life are more devastating than losing a spouse. Retirement plans can change in a hurry when the partner who helped you craft those dreams is no longer with you.

Retirees who have experienced this event and described it as extremely disruptive: 58%

Divorce is more common among retirees than ever before. Suddenly separating from a spouse is among the biggest curveballs anyone can face in retirement.

Don't let the end of your marriage destroy your golden years. Check out "Here's How to Keep a Late Divorce From Ruining Retirement."

Retirees who have experienced this event and described it as extremely disruptive: 56%

Financial setbacks are never fun, but they can be particularly devastating during retirement when you no longer can count on a steady paycheck.

Don't fall into this trap. Instead, read "5 Steps to Ensure Your Money Lasts Through Retirement."

Here are four more unexpected events that threw retirees for a loop:

For more about the unique challenges of retirement, read "12 Hard Truths About Retirement."

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