5 crystal-clear signs you’ve retired (very) well in America. Can you finally stop stressing out in 2026?

Core Insights - A significant portion of retirement savers, approximately 65%, express excessive worry about financial matters, with 56% indicating that this stress may affect their health [1][2] Group 1: Retirement Concerns - Many individuals approaching retirement are concerned about healthcare costs, inflation, insufficient savings, and interest rates, which are common feelings among retirees [2] - The financial stress experienced by retirees can lead to health issues, highlighting the interconnectedness of financial and physical well-being [1][6] Group 2: Indicators of Successful Retirement - One clear sign of a successful retirement is having paid off one's home. In 1989, only 24% of homeowners aged 65 to 79 had outstanding mortgages, but by 2022, this figure rose to 41% [4] - The financial burden of mortgage debt can be particularly stressful for retirees on fixed incomes, making those who have paid off their homes better positioned financially [5] - Health status is another critical indicator; being relatively healthy can significantly reduce financial strain, as healthcare costs are rising. In 2026, 47% of Americans expressed concern about healthcare costs, the highest since 2021 [6][7]