The US identifies 10 biggest retirement fears — MarketWatch
In the United States, the greatest weight among retirement fears is given to the costs of medical care and long-term care, the risk of outliving one’s savings, and the insolvency of the Social Security and pension systems. MarketWatch reports, citing the Retirement Fear Index created by retirement coach David Conti.
The monthly index uses artificial intelligence to track ten types of fears. It is based on a meta-analysis of 28 sources, including research by Boston College’s Center for Retirement Research, the Employee Benefit Research Institute, and assessments of Social Security solvency. The weight of each fear is determined by its presence in the media and on social networks.
Ten main fears
The list also includes inflation and rising everyday expenses, cognitive decline and loss of independence, market volatility, and the risk of low investment returns at the beginning of retirement. Other items include the loss of a sense of purpose or an identity crisis after the end of a career, housing affordability and maintenance, the burden of caring for family members and isolation, as well as taxes and regulatory changes.
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In September, the index was nearly 22 percentage points higher than the baseline level of December 2025. In August, the indicator declined somewhat amid slowing inflation and growth in the University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index. In September, it rose again due to increased concerns about market instability, savings depletion, housing, and cognitive decline.
How to reduce some of the risks
According to Conti’s assessment, about two-thirds of the ten key fears can be mitigated through financial planning, risk management, investing, and insurance coverage. Among practical steps, he cited reducing debt, which can lessen dependence on government pension payments, as well as exploring Medicare options and reviewing one’s own healthcare needs before open enrollment.
Conti also advises paying attention to physical health and considering long-term care options in advance. According to him, about 10% of Americans have such care insurance, while many people overestimate the scope of services covered by Medicare, including stays in nursing homes or care for everyday needs.
