It’s possible to live a richer, fuller, more active life as a senior overseas than in the United States.
Senior homes and age-in-place communities are the norm in North America, but they aren’t as common or simply don’t exist in many countries across the world. Instead of being removed from society at a certain age, older people are cared for by their families and remain present and active in society for longer.
Throughout Europe, for instance, it’s common to see groups of elegantly dressed elderly ladies holding court over drinks in the town plaza. In Latin America, the family remains the center of society, and older people are commonly given pride of place at events and gatherings.
Seniors benefit from preferential treatment in many of the destinations I recommend for retirement. This can take the form of discounts, priority lines, and special visas, or it can be felt as more respectful treatment, since many cultures view older people as wise and valuable.
This is particularly true in Asia, where reverence for elders is engrained in many cultures. Multi-generational houses are common, often with three or more generations living under the same roof, with the younger taking on the care of the elder.
Once parents reach a certain age, role reversal between parents and children is not just expected; it’s a cultural obligation. China even mandates this care by law, with potential punishments for adult children who don’t visit their parents often enough and with specific instructions to “never neglect or snub elderly people.”
In Korea, 60th and 70th birthdays are the big celebrations, instead of 15 or 16, as in the West. In Japan, where adult diapers outsell baby diapers, over-80s make up over 7% of the population, and society makes them welcome.
Following is my selection of recommended destinations in Asia for a happy, benefit-filled retirement overseas.
Thailand
In Thailand, you’ll be shown deference in day-to-day life as a senior. You’re unlikely to have to wait in lines as often as younger people do, and people will go out of their way to help you.
Thailand offers a retirement visa to those over 50, which requires proof of financial solvency. You can deposit 800,000 baht (about $21,720) into a local bank account or show proof of monthly income of about 65,000 baht (about $1,765). It’s valid for a year and can be renewed indefinitely.
Certain modes of public transport offer 50% off to those over 60, and several regional airlines and rental car companies offer 5% to 20% discounts.
Some museums and tourist sites offer free entry to seniors, though, as a foreigner, you might not be extended that gratuity, instead paying the tourist price. That said, the prices asked for for public transport and entertainment here are so low that the discount is almost moot.
Bali, Indonesia
In Balinese culture, elders are revered and deferred to as sources of wisdom. As in much of the rest of Asia, the concept of elder care facilities doesn’t exist here. Older people are part of the family and society until the end. Traditionally, families live in compounds where multiple generations live together harmoniously.
Bali is known for its beautiful beaches, tropical vistas, and unique culture, but the thing that really sets it apart is the kindness of Balinese people. Wherever you go in Bali, the locals will greet you with a smile. Balinese family traditions dictate care and respect for elders, which is often echoed in the treatment of senior travelers on the island.
Bali is a great choice for retirement because Indonesia offers a retirement visa. To qualify, you must be at least 55 years old and have the financial means to support yourself without working in Indonesia. The amount you’ll need to prove is $18,000 per year (in pension income or income from another source). You also need to hire a local (as a cleaner, gardener, driver, for example) to qualify for this visa.
The Philippines
The Philippines is a land of otherworldly landscapes with thousands of islands, striking blue ocean waters, and perfect tropical beaches. It can provide a lifestyle full of adventure for retirees, and it offers a low cost of living.
Moving to the Philippines is easy for older people thanks to the country’s retiree-specific visa. To qualify, you need to be at least 50 and receive an income of $800 per month. You’ll also need to deposit $10,000 into an active investment (like the purchase of a condo or the long-term lease of a house and lot).
This visa provides special benefits, like exemption from certain customs duties and entitlement to Philippine Health Insurance Corporation benefits.
English is an official language in the Philippines, and about 55% of the population speaks it fluently. The language barrier is lower here relative to other Southeast Asian destinations, making it easier to establish yourself in this country.
Filipino people are famous for their warm and friendly way of being, and respect for age and the elderly is a strong cultural value. Younger people use honorifics when addressing older people, since using their first name is considered impolite. They’ll sometimes use the “mano po” gesture to greet an older person, which involves bowing towards the older person and pressing their hand to their forehead.
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