Mexico As A Retirement Option

It was estimated in 2004 that 500, to 600,000 Americans have chosen to retire in Mexico. And that number is likely to increase (Kathleen Kirkwood, McClatchy News Service).

$1,000/month can provide a comfortable and attractive lifestyle south of the border since the cost of living is low.

Expatiates claim that there is plenty to do there and in nearby San Diego. They enjoy the culture, the mercados and the boulevards.

And in spite of travel warnings often due to narcotic-driven violence, many Americans feel as safe or safer than where they lived before in the States.

State Spending To Lure Retirees: Retirement Destinations

Ed Vogel of the Las Vegas Review Journal reported that Nevada spends practically nothing to lure retirees and he feels they're missing the boat. That's because seniors create jobs, spend a lot of money and are not a drag on government services (Applied Analysis in Las Vegas).

In addition, seniors offset unemployment because they bring in a steady income.

Now that housing costs have declined since the onset of the recession, states should be spending more, not less, to appeal to boomers and seniors.

Gay Retirement Communities Grow

The American Society on Aging reports that at least 21 gay and lesbian retirement communities are under construction in the United States. That's because "the number of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans over 65 will more than double in the next 25 years," according to Bob Moos, Knight Ridder News Service.

Since many in the gay community do not have children to call on for help, they have successfully created "families of choice."

Rainbow Vision, a 13-acre community of residences for active adults as well as assisted living suites in Santa Fe, New Mexico, provides a number of luxury services.

But more importantly, Rainbow Vision provides a place where homosexuals can be themselves among people who understand their common history.

For more on services and advocacy for GLBT elders, resort-style condos, lesbian and gay aging issues, and resources for older GLBT, visit 50somethinginfo.com

Minnie Mouse? No, Mini-House: Boomers And Seniors Downsize

As children are leaving the nest, parents give thought to downsizing.

Many are dispensing with clutter and monstrous utility bills and opting for smaller spaces.

Dianne Carlson, Community Service Directive at Area Agency in Aging, reported that as boomers age, they prefer smaller homes situated in urban vs. suburban areas. They look for open floor plans, single stories or master suites on the first level.

The Tiny House Company designs homes that are as little as 300 square feet, costing $100-200 square feet.

Tumbleweed Tiny House Company's tiny houses range from 65-140 square feet. The extra small one costs about $39,000. They are on wheels and do not require a building permit. Then the company also offers plans for homes of greater than 120 square feet which you can build yourself!

You, too, can join the new socioeconomic housing movement that reduces the world's carbon footprint. Emily Pilloton presents her "Top 5 Tiniest Prefab Homes." These homes are well built and versatile and they can even be plopped on a rooftop or squeezed between two urban dwellings.

For more on housing, visit 50somethinginfo.com.

Senior Heroes: Valle Verde Houses Evacuees From Jesusita Fire

According to Santa Barbara News Press staff writer, Bill McMorris, the senior retirement community of Wood Glen Hall on Foothill Road experienced one of the most urgent, yet collected evacuation efforts of Tuesday's exodus from the area.    Santa Barbara's Jesusita Fire put them in jeopardy and another local retirement community Valle Verde sprung into action.  

Within 3 hours the more than 50 retired individuals, some with serious medical conditions, were safely transported and housed.  

Bravo, residents and staff at Valle Verde, for readily extending a helping hand. You're a retirement community with precision, courage and heart!

Why Some People Move to Retirement Communities In Warmer Climates

You, too, can be eligible for retirement communities--providing you are at least 55.  Carol Fena suggests why you should consider moving into one:

1. Your neighbors:  Retirement communities have rules and restrictions that protect you from barking dogs, loud music, and unkempt property.

2. Home maintenance: In a retirement community you may not have to be concerned with the constant upkeep of your home nor do you need to worry if you leave it unattended for lengthy periods of time.

3. Climate:  Older people find colder weather a deterrent to going out.  Warmer climates make exercise and fitness easier.

4. Health: Not having to cope with traffic, getting cleaner air and water, and being closer to medical facilities increase the likelihood of more pleasant later years.

5. Family: Children worry less when parents are able to easily elicit help and assistance.  

6. Social life: The activities that they never had the time for are now abundant and welcoming.