Some investment advice is considered universal and timeless.

But with the markets having bottomed out in the recent financial crisis, individuals approaching retirement age in the next 3 to 5 years have to consider their options and the viability of staying the course.

The fact is, money invested in the stock market now may not yield as much of a return in the next 5 years as it could being invested in other assets. It's true -- stock is cheap now, and many people will probably experience massive returns on equity purchased in this period. But if you'll be retiring in the next few years, you might consider if that applies to you.

Should You Continue to Fund Your 401k Now?

Many people that are approaching retirement age are nervous about continuing to fund their 401k accounts. It's a valid concern: no one can predict when the stock market will hit bottom, and massive amounts of wealth have already been destroyed in the financial crisis.

This money is important -- it will fund your lifestyle throughout your retirement. Putting it to good use should be a big priority.

Contributing to your 401k, then, is a good idea -- but only as far as your employer matches your contribution. It has always been believed that investing in equity is a better position than paying down debt with moderate interest, and that's true.

But the stock market has been volatile, and strong returns will not be guaranteed for the next few years. Paying your debt now will keep you from having to pay it into your retirement.

The most obvious type of debt to pay off before investing past your employer's 401k match is your mortgage. Your mortgage represents your commitment to your largest asset, your home, and it's debt that you'll want to have paid down before beginning retirement -- especially if you can't count on your 401k to provide you with adequate retirement income.

Avoiding debt service in retirement has always been an investment mantra, and it's just as poignant in this investment environment. Avoiding debt payment should be a major component of your retirement strategy.

Where Should You Invest Your Retirement Money in Uncertain Times?

One way to decrease your debt before retirement is to engage in an accelerated mortgage payoff plan. By paying your mortgage down early, you reduce the amount of total interest paid on the loan -- which can amount to tens of thousands of dollars in savings. A Mortgage accelerator is a great way to both invest your money and pay down debt before retirement.

How Mortgage Accelerator Can Help You in Retirement

Consider using a mortgage accelerator program to reduce your debt burden in retirement. An accelerated mortgage payoff plan will help you save money over the long term and reduce your liabilities in your golden years.

And the best part, a mortgage accelerator will help you rapidly slash years of your mortgage and save you thousands without you spending more or refinancing