The economic downturn spurred Americans over the age of 55 to make changes to their lifestyle plans, work/leisure expectations and investing strategies, according to a study released this week by AIG Life and Retirement in collaboration with Age Wave.

According to the AIG Retirement Re-Set Study, 72 percent of those surveyed said the recent economic uncertainty provided a financial wake-up call, and 80 percent of those over age 55 said they are now more cautious in their approach to investing. They are far more likely to seek financial peace of mind as a key goal versus potentially higher, but riskier, returns.

"In a new era of flux and uncertainty, Americans are rebounding from a difficult period and showing their resilience by turning toward greater expense control and more responsible retirement planning," said Ken Dychtwald, CEO of Age Wave. "Lessons learned have not been forgotten. Many people are adapting a new retirement mindset and are choosing to work a bit longer, thereby helping to make retirement more affordable. They are re-setting their sights on a revised, more achievable path to retirement."