Let’s say you are 62 years of age and you have a spouse of the same age. How long should you plan for providing retirement income to the both of you? The data shows that if a female is healthy at age 62, she has a 50% of living to age 88. If a married couple is in good health at age 62, there’s a 50% probability that one of them will live to age 92. There is a 25% chance that one will live to age 97.

Of course, you should take into account your medical condition, your likelihood of a long life, and your desire for financial independence throughout retirement. Every retiree will have to make their own judgment on how long their retirement income should last. Remember, however, to factor in the impact of continued medical advances.
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