Off Balance: Retire at leisure

OFF BALANCE’S interest was piqued by some statistical shenanigans from ‘longevity analysts’ Club Vita and the University of Glasgow.

Apparently, you high-flyers out there, looking to make a quick buck then head off to the slopes or follow a cruise liner lifestyle before your hair turns grey – well, you’re not doing yourself any favours. Between the ages of 60 and 70, average life expectancy increases a month for each year you delay retirement, for those in occupational pension schemes.

The research will continue, with the dynamic duo receiving funding to run a two-year project that will bring on board NHS data to identify factors that affect life expectancy. They admit there’s a lot more research to do, such as taking into account socio-economic factors.

But if you’d asked OB, the answer would have been simple. Less time at home equals less DIY – and that’s life-affirming.