I Asked ChatGPT What Things Retirees Should Splurge On

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Retirees get plenty of advice about cutting costs and stretching their savings. But I wanted to know what expenses actually deserve extra spending in retirement, so I asked ChatGPT which purchases retirees should splurge on without guilt.

The artificial intelligence didn’t suggest frivolous treats or random luxuries. Instead, it focused on what it called investment splurges that pay you back in health, well-being, time or joy. These are also purchases financial planners, retirement researchers and aging specialists consistently recommend.

Health Spending Comes First

ChatGPT put health at the top of the list and explained that retirement studies consistently show spending on health early prevents much higher expenses later. The AI claimed every dollar spent now often saves $5 to $20 in future medical issues, though I couldn’t verify that specific ratio.

The recommended health splurges included premium vision, dental and supplemental insurance beyond basic Medicare coverage. Hearing aids made the list because the newest technology dramatically improves quality of life. Physical therapy, chiropractic care and massage therapy all qualified as smart splurges rather than wasteful expenses.

Travel While You Can Actually Enjoy It

Financial advisors widely recommend splurging on travel in your 60s and early 70s before mobility becomes a limiting factor. ChatGPT emphasized taking bucket-list trips while you can still handle long flights and physically demanding activities.

The AI suggested specific travel splurges including upgrades that prioritize comfort like premium economy seating. Small-group tours that remove logistics stress made the list along with travel insurance and accommodations like Airbnb or VRBO units with kitchens to reduce long-term food costs.

Home Upgrades Keep You Independent

ChatGPT called home improvements one of the smartest places to spend money because they keep you independent longer, prevent accidents and let you age in place. The recommended splurges focused heavily on safety and mobility.

Kitchen and bathroom renovations to improve mobility topped the list. Wide-grip handles and anti-slip flooring prevent falls, which are catastrophically expensive for older adults. Walk-in shower conversions eliminate the dangerous step over a tub edge.

Smart devices including video doorbells, smart lights and voice assistants make daily tasks easier without requiring physical capability. Air purifiers and HVAC upgrades improve health by maintaining good air quality. Quality recliners, sofas or ergonomic chairs reduce physical strain from sitting.

Hobbies Give You Purpose

The AI emphasized that retirees who have a hobby or third act project live longer, healthier and happier lives. It’s called purpose, one of the strongest predictors of longevity, which aligns with research on retirement and mental health.

ChatGPT recommended splurging on high-quality supplies for whatever hobby actually interests you, including art materials, sewing equipment, sports gear, camera equipment, musical instruments, gardening tools or raised beds and craft classes. The specific hobby matters less than having something that makes you feel alive and engaged.

A Reliable Car Matters More Than You Think

Retirees need reliability, comfort, low repair risk and good safety features in their vehicles. ChatGPT called this a top smart splurge because car issues can be physically and financially draining when you’re older.

The AI suggested used Toyotas or Hondas for best long-term value, Subarus for excellent safety and hybrids for low maintenance plus fuel cost savings. Cars with modern safety technology including blind-spot monitoring, lane assist and parking cameras made the recommendation list.

Pay For Help Around the House

Aging experts say retirees should splurge on time-saving help so they can focus on living rather than chores. ChatGPT listed housecleaning (even if just monthly), lawn care, grocery delivery, meal kit services, regular plumber or handyman help and laundry service as worthwhile expenses. (The AI called laundry service specifically a huge quality-of-life upgrade.)

Experiences With Family Create Lasting Value

ChatGPT called family experiences one of the most emotionally valuable things retirees spend on. The recommended splurges included family vacations, holiday hosting, paying for grandchildren’s activities or camps, experience gifts like zoo passes or shows and annual traditions.

Daily Life Conveniences Are Worth the Money

ChatGPT argued that life is short and there’s no reason to struggle with inconvenient tasks. The list of ease-of-life splurges included robot vacuums or mops, Instant Pots or air fryers, adjustable bed frames, heated blankets, subscription services you actually use, better cookware, high-quality towels and bedding and comfortable clothing.

Mental Fitness Requires Investment

ChatGPT wrote that seniors should spend on classes including dance, languages, art, coding or cooking to keep the mind sharp and combat loneliness. Therapy or counseling, books and audiobooks, online learning platforms and senior community center memberships all qualified as smart splurges.

Pets Provide Multiple Benefits

The AI wrote that pets are proven to reduce anxiety, give purpose, increase mobility and reduce loneliness. Quality pet food, vet plans, pet-sitting services and a well-designed backyard or cat patio all counted as worthwhile splurges for retirees who want animal companionship.

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