Facebook Linkedin-in Youtube Soundcloud

This Isn’t Your Granny and Pop-Pop’s Retirement

Seniors Embracing Adventure in Their Golden Years

Retirement is no longer synonymous with rocking chairs, knitting needles, and quiet afternoons. Today’s seniors are redefining what it means to grow older, embracing adventure, thrill-seeking, and extreme sports in ways that previous generations never imagined. From skydiving to bungee jumping, scuba diving to mountain climbing, retirees are proving that age is just a number. However, living this adventurous lifestyle requires more than just courage—it demands financial freedom and careful planning. That’s where a financial planner, like Retire SMART LLC, becomes beneficial.

The Rise of the Adventurous Retiree

As life expectancy increases and healthcare improves, seniors are living longer, healthier lives. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global average life expectancy has risen to over 73 years, with many developed nations seeing averages well into the 80s (WHO, 2023). This longevity, combined with a cultural shift toward active lifestyles, has encouraged retirees to pursue activities that were once considered the domain of the young.

A 2024 report by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) highlighted that exercise programs tailored for older adults are among the top fitness trends for 2025. Seniors are increasingly participating in activities that improve flexibility, balance, and mental health, such as yoga and tai chi, but many are also venturing into the realm of extreme sports (Recreation Management, 2024).

Thrill-Seeking in Retirement: A Growing Trend

The thrill-seeking trend among retirees is not just anecdotal; it’s backed by data. According to a 2025 survey by the International Adventure Travel Trade Association, the number of travelers aged 60 and above participating in adventure tourism has grown by 65% over the past decade. Activities like skydiving, zip-lining, and even shark cage diving are becoming increasingly popular among this demographic.

One of the reasons for this shift is the desire to make the most of retirement. After decades of hard work, many seniors feel they’ve earned the right to chase their dreams and tick items off their bucket lists. For some, it’s about reclaiming a sense of youth and vitality; for others, it’s about proving to themselves—and the world—that they’re still capable of great feats.

Financial Freedom: The Key to Chasing Dreams

While the spirit of adventure is admirable, the reality is that these activities often come with a hefty price tag. For example:

  • Skydiving: A tandem jump can cost anywhere from $200 to $300, depending on the location and altitude.
  • Bungee Jumping: Prices range from $100 to $200 per jump.
  • Scuba Diving: Certification courses alone can cost $500 to $1,000, not including travel expenses to exotic dive sites.
  • Adventure Travel: A guided trek to Mount Everest Base Camp can cost upwards of $4,000, excluding airfare.

These costs highlight the importance of financial planning. Without a solid financial foundation, the dream of an adventurous retirement could remain just that—a dream. This is where Retire SMART comes into play.

The Role of Retire SMART LLC in Empowering Adventurous Retirees

Retire SMART helps to provide retirees with a better chance of achieving financial independence, so they have the resources to live the life they’ve always envisioned. Here’s how their services align with the needs of thrill-seeking seniors:

1. Comprehensive Financial Planning

Retire SMART works with clients to develop personalized financial plans that account for both everyday expenses and extraordinary adventures. By analyzing income streams, savings, and investments, they help retirees better plan to afford their dream activities without jeopardizing their financial security.

2. Tax Efficiency

Adventure sports and travel often involve significant expenses, some of which may be tax-deductible. Retire SMART helps clients navigate the complexities of tax planning, maximizing deductions and minimizing liabilities.

3. Healthcare and Insurance Planning

Extreme sports come with inherent risks, making adequate health and travel insurance essential. Retire SMART advises clients on the best insurance options to cover medical emergencies, ensuring peace of mind during their adventures.

4. Estate Planning

For retirees with families, helping to better prepare them so that their loved ones are financially secure is a top priority. Retire SMART provides estate planning services, helping clients manage their assets and create a legacy for future generations.

5. Budgeting for Bucket Lists

Whether it’s a one-time splurge or a lifelong passion, Retire SMART helps clients allocate funds specifically for their bucket list activities. This helps retirees enjoy their adventures without guilt or financial strain.

The Importance of Financial Literacy and Compliance

As retirees become more adventurous, financial literacy becomes increasingly important. Seniors need to understand the risks and rewards of various financial decisions, from investing in high-yield accounts to withdrawing from retirement funds. Retire SMART LLC prioritizes education, empowering clients to make informed choices.

Additionally, compliance with financial regulations is critical. Retire SMART LLC adheres to FINRA and SEC guidelines, ensuring that all advice and services are transparent, ethical, and in the best interest of the client (Investment Writing, 2010).

Conclusion: Adventure Awaits

Retirement is no longer about slowing down—it’s about speeding up, taking risks, and embracing life to the fullest. Today’s seniors are proving that age is no barrier to adventure, whether it’s skydiving over the Grand Canyon or scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. However, these dreams require careful planning and financial freedom.

With the guidance of a financial planner like Retire SMART, retirees can have a better chance to turn their bucket lists into reality. By providing comprehensive financial planning, tax efficiency, and risk management, Retire SMART helps to empower seniors to live boldly and adventurously, knowing they feel more comfortable with their financial plan.

So, if you’re ready to redefine retirement and chase your dreams, start planning today. Adventure awaits.

References

Investment Writing. (2010, July 15). FINRA/SEC compliance guidance for bloggers. https://www.investmentwriting.com/finrasec-compliance-guidance-for-bloggers/

Share the Post:

Ready to take

The Next Step?

For more information about any of our products and services, schedule a meeting today or register to attend a seminar.

Schedule a Meeting
Register for an Event

Contact Information

  • Phone: (402) 369-7777
  • Email: connect@retiresmartllc.com
  • Omaha: 13815 FNB Parkway Suite 400 Omaha, NE 68154

    Lincoln: 7321 Plaza Ct Suite 102 Lincoln, NE 68516
  • Monday – Thursday 8:30AM - 5:30PM Friday 8:30AM - 3PM
    (Closed Saturday and Sunday)

Disclosures

Our Affiliations

omahachamber
2023Inc5000logo
BBB

We are an independent financial services firm helping individuals create retirement strategies using a variety of investment and insurance products to custom suit their needs and objectives.

Advisory services offered through SMART Wealth, an affiliate of Retire SMART. SMART Wealth, LLC is a federally registered investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and an affiliate of Retire Smart. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training. The communications of an adviser provide you with information about which you determine to hire or retain an adviser. Information about SMART Wealth, LLC can be found by visiting www.adviserinfo.sec.gov and searching by the adviser’s name. This is prepared for informational purposes only. It does not address specific investment objectives. All investments are subject to risk including the potential loss of principal. Individuals should consult with a qualified professional for guidance before making any purchasing decisions.

Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. None of the information contained on this website shall constitute an offer to sell or solicit any offer to buy a security or any insurance product.

*Any references to protection benefits or steady and reliable income streams on this website refer only to fixed insurance products. They do not refer, in any way, to securities or investment advisory products. Annuity guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Annuities are insurance products that may be subject to fees, surrender charges and holding periods which vary by insurance company. Annuities are not FDIC insured.

The information and opinions contained in any of the material requested from this website are provided by third parties and have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. They are given for informational purposes only and are not a solicitation to buy or sell any of the products mentioned. The information is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Neither the firm nor its agents or representatives may give tax advice.  Individuals should consult with a qualified professional for guidance before making any purchasing decisions. Retire SMART is not affiliated with the US government or any governmental agency. Any media logos and/or trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners and no endorsement by those owners of Retire SMART is stated or implied. Appearances on the media outlets included herein are paid placements.

Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 list are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2019 to 2022. The full 2023 Inc. 5000 list was published in August 2023. SMART Wealth paid Inc. Magazine a non-refundable processing fee to be considered for inclusion on the Inc. 5000 list.

Fill out your information below to download this guide!

SMART Library

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.