Mexico Gears Up to Woo Aging U.S. Population

Earlier this week we told you about Mexico's fabulous benefits program for those aged 60 and over who have a valid residence permit for Mexico. Now we've just seen an article in USA Today about something that we've been quietly expecting for some time-the rise of assisted-living facilities in Mexico that are geared toward U.S. retirees.

The article looks at several facilities in and around Ajijic, in the Lake Chapala area near Guadalajara, Mexico. Ajijic is a logical location for assisted-living facilities. There is a large expat population in the area; the climate is mild; and nearby Guadalajara is a major medical center for Mexico, ensuring availability of excellent doctors and nursing staff. Throw in the significantly lower cost of medical care in Mexico, and it becomes a no-brainer.

The assisted-living "business" in Mexico is in its infancy, and there are still some kinks to work out. There is little regulation, and standards can vary. Sometimes, apparently, managers underestimate the expense of running a facility, which may then go bankrupt or retrench services. Mexicans themselves have traditionally stayed with family in their golden years, so the concept of assisted living is new to them.

But they're learning fast. With millions of U.S. baby boomers heading into retirement, and with U.S. health care costs continuing to climb, assisted-living and gerontology services for expat retirees are poised to be growth businesses in Mexico for decades to come.

If you've been considering Mexico as a second-home or retirement destination, it's definitely time to take another look-Mexico is rolling out the red carpet for you. With easy-to-obtain retiree residence permits, a staggering range of money-saving benefits once you hit 60, and inexpensive, high-quality assisted-living care in your twilight years (or for aging parents you may be caring for), la vida buena south of the border looks better every day.

To see the USA Today article in its entirety, click here.

Best Regards,

Suzan Haskins
Editor,Mexico Insider
International Living

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