New research into retirement readiness has highlighted a growing blind spot for people living in Leinster, with many feeling emotionally and socially prepared for retirement but lacking confidence in their financial planning.
The latest Retirement Pulse research from Standard Life shows that while people in Leinster outside Dublin demonstrate stronger social readiness than the national average, financial preparedness continues to lag behind. Only 27 percent of adults in the region feel financially ready for retirement, while half say they are unprepared.
The findings form part of Standard Life’s broader approach to retirement planning, which looks beyond pension participation alone and instead measures readiness across financial security, social connection and mindset. As conversations around pensions grow, driven by policy changes and the introduction of auto enrolment, the focus is shifting from awareness to action. The research suggests that true retirement readiness depends not just on saving, but on confidence, clarity and support.
Across Leinster, mindset readiness is broadly in line with the national average, with almost half of adults saying they feel mentally prepared for retirement. Social readiness is stronger, with 47 percent saying they feel socially prepared, compared to a national average of 44 percent. Financial confidence remains the weakest area, with only just over a quarter feeling ready and one in two saying they are not.
The research also highlights gender differences. While 42 percent of both men and women in Leinster believe they are making the most of their pension, men report higher levels of financial clarity. Thirty five percent of men say they know how much they will need in retirement to live comfortably, compared to just 26 percent of women. Men are also more likely to look forward to retirement, while women are more likely to feel anxious when thinking about it.
Attitudes towards retirement reveal mixed emotions. Just under four in ten people say they look forward to retirement, while 43 percent feel anxious or scared at the prospect. More than a third are concerned they may not be able to retire at all.
Confidence in pension planning remains limited. Only 41 percent believe they are maximising their pension, while fewer than one third know how much income they will need in retirement. Just 37 percent say they are fully taking advantage of pension tax relief.
Alan McCarthy, Head of Distribution at Standard Life, said retirement readiness is changing as people live longer and spend more years in retirement. He said retirement is no longer just about having a pension, but about feeling equipped for a longer life after work. While social and mindset readiness in Leinster suggest people are engaging with the idea of retirement, the lack of financial confidence is a concern. He added that building confidence requires clear information, guidance and support throughout a person’s working life.
Brian Mooney, End of Career Guidance Counsellor with Standard Life, said the transition into retirement can be challenging for many. He explained that work often defines identity for decades, making retirement feel abrupt. However, he said retirement today should be seen as a transition into a second life, offering purpose, connection and the opportunity to redefine oneself. According to Mooney, those who thrive in retirement are the ones who think beyond finances and focus on social connection, personal fulfilment and peace of mind.
The research highlights the need for a more balanced approach to retirement planning, one that supports financial security while also helping people prepare mentally and socially for the next stage of life.
