Retirement Plus: Use Bonds to Supplement Your Retirement - MFI Series1, #197

Bonds for every occasion. Bonds are an integral part of your retirement planning and portfolio. Bonds (or fixed income) allow you to invest in assets that pay you interest safely. You may not achieve capital appreciation, but you keep your principal secure. This means that you don't have to lose sleep during market downturns. During retirement, there is nothing more important than your financial security. Building the correct allocation between stock and bonds comes down to your risk tolerance and acceptance.
Either way, bonds will be your best friend during times of darkness.