Homes for Retirement

It’s no surprise that many people from chilly northern European nations dream of retiring to Italy. We’ve all noticed what a great quality of life Italian senior citizens seem to enjoy. Far from having to stay shuttered away indoors out of the cold, unvisited and lonely, older people in Italy are visibly at the heart of community life. They’re out chatting with friends and neighbours, involved in all local activities and known to everyone in town. Respect for older people, and the inclusion of them in all aspects of community life, is a big part of Italian culture.

Then there’s the Italian climate and cuisine, which could almost have been purposely designed to combat the typical ills of ageing. Warm, dry weather minimises rheumatic problems and allows an active, outdoor lifestyle that maintains physical fitness and helps fend off cognitive decline. Meanwhile, a diet packed with fresh vegetables and olive oil protects against cellular inflammation and gives significant protection against arthritis, heart disease, strokes and various types of cancer. Little wonder that the Italians enjoy excellent longevity, and maintain high levels of physical mobility well into old age. This is a supremely healthy country to live in.

But when illness does strike, Italy offers superb – and, of course, free – state medical care.