For secure retirement, save early, save often

— -- Financial analysts say the key to a comfortable retirement remains saving as much as you can before you stop working, working as long as you are able, and trying to draw from a variety of income sources such as 401(k), a pension, home equity and Social Security.

Saving as much as you can and as early as you can is crucial, says Richard Johnson, a senior researcher with the Urban Institute.

But even those in their 50s and 60s still can make significant contributions to their retirements, because those are the years people tend to have better jobs, earn more money and have fewer expenses.

"For many people, most of their retirement saving occurs when they're in their 50s and 60s, so there is still time for people to recoup some of their losses," Johnson says.

Some tips to stretch the retirement dollar:

•Work longer. That will increase your Social Security benefits at full retirement age.

•Seek help. Educate yourself or consult with a certified financial planner. "Even if you don't hire one on an ongoing basis, everyone needs to see one at least once before retirement to make sure they are on the right path," says Bryan Lee of Strategic Financial Planning in Plano, Texas.

•Diversify that 401(k). The National Endowment for Financial Education also recommends keeping as much money in defined-contribution plans as long as possible, and for those who are able, take advantage of any catch-up provision in your plan.

•Consider home equity. Try to pay off your mortgage by the time you retire.