You are 100% correct it all depends on age.
I know people at 62 years old who look about 80 years old. I have advised them to take Soc. Sec. ASAP.
I know others who are still doing triathlons at 70 - statistics say it makes sense for them to wait for higher payments.
I waited until 70 but that was due to my own unique circumstances which may not apply to many others:
—Both my parents died in their mid nineties and other close relatives lived a long time
—My health was excellent (and remains so)
—My income was a lot higher than my wife so maximizing my benefit meant hers would be much higher as well—regardless of when she started taking benefits
—I could afford to wait
Every person’s situation is different.
I took it a few months prior to full retirement age. My breakeven, IIRC, was around 80. I’m in good shape but by 80 I know I just won’t travel as much. The income now does more to set me up for future enjoyment than getting a little more when I’m 80+. I can still hike miles now - but at 85?
And in truth, I have always assumed I would not collect ANY SS. I do have military retirement and I would not be surprised if, 5-7 years from now, the US government decides a retired military officer doesn’t DESERVE full SS benefits and cuts mine 50% or more.