Hmm, Brian, things to be said for both sides methinks.
I was lucky insofar as a realisation that I was the Official Old Guy on the Watch (both in age and I think timeserved at LL); a move to the new VCR; and my wife's job turning to a bunch of arse all conspired simultaneously to make us think seriously about our future. I have no doubt that I retired too early (53), because I did miss the job itself for a long time and still have good memories of the overwhelming majority of my workmates. Financially, fings could be better - but that's true of everyone. My belief that the world doesn't owe me a living has supported me, and I've found a new interest in teaching. So even being 58 isn't a barrier to working if you want to.
Different strokes for different folks I guess - but teh enjoyment of life is far more important than what you do during it.
That's the philosophy class over with - I'll get back to gazin' at me navel now; Tara.
