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§ Calculator · Retirement

Retirement phases (go-go / slow-go / no-go)

What this is

Retirement spending isn't flat, it's a curve

David Blanchett's research: retirees spend more in early retirement (travel, projects), less in mid retirement (settled, slowing down), and rise again in late retirement (healthcare). The 'phases' framework adjusts the projection.

  • ·Go-go (~age 65-75): 100% of base spending. Travel, hobbies, helping kids, projects.
  • ·Slow-go (~age 75-85): 80% of base. Still active but less travel, fewer big purchases.
  • ·No-go (~age 85+): 70% of base + healthcare add-on. Out-of-pocket meds, vision, dental, home care.

Go-Go (65-74) · 10y

$6,600

Slow-Go (75-84) · 10y

$5,280

No-Go (85-90) · 6y

$60,372

Total lifetime (real $)

$72,252

Total lifetime (nominal $)

$72,810

Real-dollar adjustment

2.5%/yr

Educational projection. Not financial advice. Phase percentages are individual, heavy travellers stay at 100% longer; minimalists drop to 60%. Use the sliders to match your reality.

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Disclaimer

Educational, not financial advice. Output is generated by an AI assistant using simplified assumptions. Tax rates, contribution limits, and benefit amounts change annually; confirm with a CFP, CPA, or the relevant Canadian regulator (CRA, FSRA, OSC, IIROC) before acting.