The best thing I did was, about 6 years ago, in anticipation of retirement, was creating a monthly budget and expenses spreadsheet.

I was able to see what I spent on necessities vs wants, and see if I could afford to stay in my apartment in an expensive suburb after retirement.

I'm almost a year in and between Social Security, a small state pension, and an annuity, I'm comfortable. But I always had modest tastes and paid off my credit card in full every month. I also didn't have kids and worked full time my entire working life.

My fear is what happens when I no longer can live on my own due to disability, as I have no home to sell to buy into assisted living type communities.