Look around you. Take a good look at all the seniors in and around your life. What does their retirement look like? What about when you compare it to your parents’ and grandparents’ golden years?

Undoubtedly, there’s a lot to learn from the older generation, from general life advice to tips and tricks for a happy, fulfilling life. But if you’re looking to get retirement advice then it might not be a great idea. That’s because your parents and grandparents likely had a much easier time both in terms of preparing their nest egg and actually enjoying it!

Let’s face it, a lot of things have changed in the United States over the years. Social and economic shifts have become so drastic that what one generation could experience might be unfeasible for the next.

It’s about time we deconstruct these issues and look at 8 reasons your parents had an easier time with their retirement plans. And while we’re at it, are there any things you can do to ensure your own golden years will go according to plan?

1. We’re living longer

Lifestyle changes, along with advances in medicine, have become major factors in our retirement planning. Back in 1935, the average 65 year old senior could expect to live around 12 more years. Nowadays? You can expect to live for two more decades, according to the Social Security Administration.

Think about it, you have to make sure that your finances are in order for an additional 20 years after you exit the workforce. Not only do you need to cover living expenses but most likely medical costs as well. Not to mention always having an emergency fund at the ready!

All of these things might be difficult to figure out on your own. You can speculate and make plans, but our tip is to contact a financial adviser. They’re better equipped with situations like these and know what an average person needs during retirement, so calculating how much you can save for a longer period of time is right up their alley.

Don’t try to do everything on your own!