People often fear that they will get bored upon retiring, and after a lifetime of work, that’s very possible. However, it’s important not to combat this with retail therapy, buying stuff you won’t use. This is very common, especially with the following 17 useless items people buy when they retire.
Too much exercise equipment
Many retirees invest in expensive exercise equipment that rarely gets used. These items can take up a huge amount of space in the home, and there are many more practical and less costly ways to stay active, such as aqua aerobics, community fitness classes, or simply walking, as recommended by the AHA.
Unnecessary gardening tools
Some retirees might buy sophisticated gardening tools that they, or their garden, don’t need. They may think they are making their lives easier, but with these large and expensive items, such as ride-on mowers and leaf blowers, come the challenges of maintaining and storing them.
Time-consuming hobby kits
Hobby kits will be on some to-buy lists for retirees, but some may buy complex kits instead of selecting those that match their actual interests and skill levels. These may require more time and effort than anticipated, and particularly difficult projects can lead to frustration rather than relaxation.
New gadgets
As Forbes notes, technology develops rapidly, which can quickly make new gadgets obsolete and a huge waste of money. Many gadgets can also be complicated to use, while others focus on ease of use and are often designed with retirees in mind. Keep this in mind when purchasing new gadgets!
Travel accessories
Retirement goes hand in hand with travel, so retirees often purchase extensive travel accessories and gear for vacations that may not be necessary. It’s important to assess the real necessity and cost-effectiveness of travel items and make sure you have enough money left to enjoy your trip!
Adding to collections
Many retirees have always collected as a hobby and begin collecting in earnest when they leave their careers. However, collecting decorative items can lead to clutter, especially in smaller living spaces. The investment value of collectibles may also be low, as they generally do not appreciate as expected.
Cooking and baking appliances
Specialized appliances are great if you use them enough, but often, they will not be used frequently and just take up space on countertops. Many retirees will invest in appliances like this, but they will be a huge waste of money if they are not used. Traditional cooking methods work just as well!
Extensive book collections
Reading is a wonderful way to relax while learning new things when retired. However, some retirees may purchase a huge amount of books, all needing storage space and organization. Alternatively, the library can be used instead of buying books, and purchasing an e-reader is another space-saving alternative.
Health supplements
A lot of retirees invest in their health, and a new health kick will often call for new health supplements. However, it’s important to consider the cost of supplements and whether they’re really needed. In the opinion of Harvard Health, it’s always best to check with a doctor before taking any individual supplement.
Home Renovation Supplies
People may plan for years for home renovations that they never have time to get around to. This is why many retirees tend to embark on ambitious and unrealistic DIY home projects. These can get expensive and frustrating, as sometimes they are unnecessary and hard to manage.
Cooking ingredients
If you love to cook but haven’t had enough time to do it, it’s tempting to cook all your favorite foods upon retiring. Don’t get too carried away, though, as you’ll end up buying tons of gourmet ingredients that can expire unused if specific meals are not planned out!
Language learning software
Learning a new language is a wonderful way to spend free time when you retire. However, the enthusiasm for learning new languages may wane quickly. Local classes or free smartphone apps may be more engaging and social than expensive language learning software.
Craft supplies
Most crafty people tend to overbuy materials for crafts they love, especially when they retire. We want to use them; we just don’t have the time! You may have the time to do crafts all day and want to buy materials accordingly, but buying as necessary is more practical.
Complex puzzles
Puzzles are a great way to keep one’s brain engaged. However, overly complex puzzles can be frustrating if they exceed one’s skill level, and large setups can take up significant space for long periods. Keep playing puzzles, but choose ones you’ll enjoy to avoid wasting time, space, and money.
Exotic plants
Green-fingered retirees sometimes invest in plants that may require conditions hard to replicate at home. Exotic plants can be high maintenance and might not be suitable or practical for all retirees. As The Spruce explains, they can be fussy until you get their level of humidity, light, and moisture right.
Golf equipment
Retirees may overestimate how often golf equipment will be used after retirement. Renting equipment at courses may be more cost-efficient to ensure frequent usage and enjoyment before purchasing. Take lessons first, and make sure you love the game before investing.
Exercise subscriptions
Finally, many retirees sign up for multiple fitness programs or DVDs that are rarely used. Instead, remember that many such programs are available free online and provide the same benefits! The internet has something for everyone, so you may even find options that match your lifestyle and physical condition.
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