I easily believe it as I retired 11 years ago at age 50. I owe no one, everything is paid off and I homesteaded my home, took my VA 100% disability tax exempt status on my home and property as well so it can be done under certain circumstances. I realize most people can't do it that way totally but they can work to pay off their home and other big ticket items and stop spending so much on things that they really don't need and can easily live without.
And I still haven't even filed for my SS retirement. All my previous belt tightening measures are paying off nicely now.
I dunno if this comes off as cheesy, but I’m glad for you! I don’t think that people live to be work horses all of their lives. There is little in the world so satisfying as enjoying the fruits of one’s labors (The Bible says nothing greater under the sun), and a big ‘ole heaping reward for a life of industry and experience is often to rest from the labors of youth, into the labor of counseling one’s children, grandchildren, etc. or doing other things that are meaningful. I see absolutely nothing wrong with someone who has worked hard and contributed something to spend their later years doing the things they have loved most, or start new adventures. Work hard, play hard. But it seems some people want only to play, and that mentality robs them of all human decency, and leaves NO satisfaction.