When I moved to Asheville, North Carolina at the age of 51 back in 2015, it was mostly because I fell in love with the serene landscapes and the warm community vibe. The choice was also practical; I considered the cost of living, access to good healthcare, and a climate that was easier on my bones during colder seasons. For anyone looking to relocate in their later years, these factors play a huge role because your needs and access to amenities change as you age. I'm happy to say that I don't regret my decision one bit! Asheville has proven to be an enriching environment with a supportive community for older adults. The accessibility to nature's soothing scenes and the minimal stress lifestyle here contribute greatly to my overall well-being. If you're contemplating a move for your retirement years, don't just think about the aesthetics of a place. Consider practicalities like healthcare, cost of living, and the community. It's these elements that truly impact your daily living and overall happiness as you age in a new place.
Neuroscientist | Scientific Consultant in Physics & Theoretical Biology | Author & Co-founder at VMeDx
Answered 8 months ago
Good Day, 1. She is my good friend for the last 67 years, an elder, living in Asheville, North Carolina. She uses the pronouns she/her. 2. She was 55 when she moved there, so it must have been around 2013. 3. She had spent most of her life in the northern states, but when she retired, she wanted a place that had a much calmer feeling, was easy on the body, had little snow, and lots of sun. Asheville had a small-town feeling equal to nature and an excellent healthcare system without feeling isolated. Those were the two big things for her-she wanted nothing to do with being stuck in snow indoors during winter or to be distanced from capable doctors. Outdoor activities on a frequent basis mattered to her and the sense of community. 4. In fact, she is quite happy about the change. More than once, she has stated that it's actually been the best decision she made in retirement. She does a lot of walking and some easy hiking; she's even joined a book club and affiliated herself with a local volunteer group. Exactly the lifestyle she had hoped for. 5. Yet it has its imperfections. It's hilly; Asheville is; and the not-so-young ones find it hard. She is very sprightly; still, she knows that such things may change. Luckily, she's not far from her doctors, and the city has many available community services for older adults, which she appreciates. 6. And on this note, she does not see herself moving out again. She feels very settled right now, and connected. 7. If someone asked her about the process of moving after fifty, here would be her counsel: First, you want to determine that you are not isolating yourself; part of the easy connection for friendship or community is to think about how simple it will be. Second, check local healthcare resources before moving; don't assume it will be easy to get health care everywhere. Finally, spend time in the area before you jump; that place may not live up to what sounds good on paper. She rented there for a few months before buying, and she said that helped confirm it as the right place for her. If you decide to use this quote, I'd love to stay connected! Feel free to reach me at gregorygasic@vmedx.com and outreach@vmedx.com.
Hi there, 1. My name is Jeanette Brown. I'm a personal and career coach in my 60s who helps women in midlife transitions. A few years ago, I made the decision to relocate to Singapore with the intention of aging in place. 2. I moved to Singapore at the age of 56, a few years ago, after decades in the U.S. I wanted a fresh start and a place where I could truly see myself aging with energy and purpose. 3. Singapore stood out for three reasons: healthcare, safety, and community. Its world-class healthcare system gave me peace of mind, knowing I could access excellent care as I grew older. Safety was also critical — Singapore consistently ranks as one of the safest places in the world, which matters when living alone or later in life. Finally, I was drawn to its multicultural environment, where traditions from East and West blend. For me, aging well meant staying curious and connected to new perspectives, and Singapore offered that. 4. I feel strongly that it was the right choice. Moving overseas later in life was daunting, but Singapore has given me a sense of vitality and belonging I didn't anticipate. I walk more, eat fresher foods, and I've made friendships across cultures that continue to inspire me. 5. Reliable public transportation, healthcare accessibility, and the ease of staying active outdoors year-round. The main challenge is distance from my extended family in the U.S., which can feel isolating at times. Still, the community I've built here helps to balance that gap. 6. No regrets — I don't plan to move again. Singapore feels like home, and I see myself staying here long term. 7. First, consider healthcare access — you'll need it sooner than you think, and quality varies widely. Second, test the lifestyle before you commit. Spend a few months there to see if you truly feel at home with the climate, culture, and pace. Third, weigh community over cost. A cheaper location might look good on paper, but if you feel disconnected or unsafe, the savings won't matter. Ask yourself if the environment energizes you. A beautiful home means little if you feel disconnected from your surroundings. Hope you'll find my insights helpful! Don't hesitate to reach out if you need more info! Cheers, Jeanette Brown Jeanette Brown Personal & Career Coach