This article appears as part of Casey Weade's Weekend Reading for Retirees series. Every Friday, Casey highlights four hand-picked articles on trending retirement topics and delivers them straight to your email inbox. Get on the list here.

What to know: Previous podcast guest Christine Benz shares a personal story from 1994 when her parents gifted her and her husband part of their home down payment, enabling them to buy a better house. This early financial help proved invaluable, not only for starting their family life but also for allowing the couple to live near their parents and support them as they aged.

Today, many retirees experience underspending habits; saving more than necessary out of fear of running out of money. As such, research shows that retirees who follow standard withdrawal rates frequently leave behind significant portfolio balances. While leaving an inheritance is beneficial, Benz argues that giving smaller amounts earlier—such as for a down payment or student loans—can sometimes have a more meaningful impact on a loved one’s life trajectory.

Key Takeaways: You might find it psychologically difficult to shift from saving to spending, but by leveraging a flexible withdrawal strategy, you are more likely to enjoy your wealth (and share, if that’s your wish) during your lifetime.