The six retirement fears keeping Australians up at night
Sydney Morning Herald
by Bec WilsonFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A recent survey of Australians nearing retirement revealed six common fears that keep them awake at night: running out of money, losing health, losing identity without work, government changes to superannuation rules, boredom, and loneliness. These concerns are not irrational but sensible worries shared by many retirees. The key to overcoming these fears lies in addressing them with practical steps rather than dismissing them as minor issues.
The most prevalent fear is financial insecurity, often expressed as “what if I run out of money?” People worry about affording basic living expenses and housing costs. However, the solution isn’t just finding a magic number for retirement savings but ensuring spending aligns with income over time. Managing this requires realistic budgeting and planning for contingencies like market downturns or health issues.
Another major fear is losing one’s sense of purpose after leaving work. This can lead to identity crises, as many find themselves struggling with the transition from a structured work life to retirement. The challenge is redefining self-worth and creating new meaning in life, which often involves exploring hobbies, volunteer work, or part-time roles.
Health concerns also loom large, particularly the fear of dying before enjoying retirement. This highlights the importance of prioritizing physical and mental well-being early on, as health issues can quickly limit opportunities for enjoyment. retirees need to focus on maintaining strength, mobility, and resilience to make the most of their golden years.
Finally, social isolation is a significant worry. Many fear losing connections and feeling alone in retirement. Addressing this requires intentional efforts to build new relationships and engage with communities, whether through clubs, volunteer work, or staying connected with loved ones.
These fears are universal but can be
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/13/2026