Retirement reality check: 5 big purchases retired boomers wish they could undo. Here’s how to avoid the same fate

Core Insights - Retirement spending can unexpectedly increase despite the absence of work-related expenses and contributions to retirement accounts [1] Group 1: Retirement Phases and Spending Habits - Financial planners identify three phases of retirement: Go-Go, Slow-Go, and No-Go, with the Go-Go years (ages 65 to 75) characterized by significant spending on fulfilling lifelong dreams [2] - Average retiree spending declines by over 30% between ages 60 and 85 as individuals transition through the Go-Go and Slow-Go years [3] Group 2: Spending Regrets - Common spending regrets among retirees include costly trips, upsizing homes, purchasing luxury vehicles, boats, RVs, and impulsive online shopping [3] Group 3: Financial Management for Retirement - Proper financial planning is essential to enjoy retirement while managing savings effectively [4] Group 4: Economic Context and Inflation - The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 2.7% annual inflation rate in November 2025, indicating potential risks to retirement savings [5] Group 5: Investment Strategies - Gold IRAs are highlighted as a protective investment option for retirees, especially given the U.S. dollar's significant loss of purchasing power since 1971 [6] - Gold prices have surged nearly 70% over the past year, outperforming the S&P 500 index's 17.6% return, as investors seek safe-haven assets amid economic volatility [7]