Escaping the hustle and bustle of city life is a long-awaited dream of many seniors. One they can finally turn into reality following retirement. And while some manage just fine living away from the city, others come to realize that countryside life isn't all they were hoping it to be. Unfortunately, it's impossible to tell for sure whether such a living arrangement would suit you before you've officially relocated. Nevertheless, it does pay to be aware of the pros and cons of moving to the countryside as a senior before going through with it. That way, you should be able to paint a better picture of what's possibly coming, and hopefully, make an informed decision.
Pros of Moving to the Countryside as a Senior
One cannot talk about the moving preparations without mentioning packing. There isn't a right or wrong way to pack. Nevertheless, we can all agree that a list of all the necessities you want to take with you must be made beforehand to do this efficiently. By doing so, when the time to pack comes, you ensure nothing is left behind. However, before you've started getting your suitcases ready, let's see why you should even contemplate moving to the country and if there is anything to be gained from it.
An Abundance of Fresh Air
It goes without saying that the air in the countryside is better than in the city. And how wouldn't it be with fewer vehicles on the road and greenery all around? Furthermore, the better the air quality, the better the overall health. In the long run, the longer the life as well.
More House for the Money
Countryside homes tend to be far cheaper than those in urban areas. That means that if you decide to move someplace rural, you will ultimately be getting more house for your money. You can finally get that spacious, dream home you've wanted for years! All while getting to enjoy it in peace and quiet.
Cheaper Lifestyle
Living costs differ from one place to another. However, city life is almost exclusively more expensive than that in the countryside. By relocating to the outskirts, it's your wallet that recovers. We've already mentioned that properties there are more affordable. On top of that, utilities and taxes tend to be lower, along with gas and groceries.
If affordable living convinces you to move, bear in mind that the process itself isn't something you'll be able to execute successfully on your own - what with your age and the difficulty of the moving process itself. Before moving to the countryside as a senior, you'll have to look up and hire a moving company to help out with the task. They'll require you to sign a moving contract beforehand, as well. As is the case with all contracts, it's of high importance that you understand it before signing so that you can decide for yourself what type of contract is the one for you.
A Sense of Belonging
Everyone knows everyone in small communities. People te
Escaping the hustle and bustle of city life is a long-awaited dream of many seniors. One they can finally turn into reality following retirement. And while some manage just fine living away from the city, others come to realize that countryside life isn't all they were hoping it to be. Unfortunately, it's impossible to tell for sure whether such a living arrangement would suit you before you've officially relocated. Nevertheless, it does pay to be aware of the pros and cons of moving to the countryside as a senior before going through with it. That way, you should be able to paint a better picture of what's possibly coming, and hopefully, make an informed decision.
Pros of Moving to the Countryside as a Senior
One cannot talk about the moving preparations without mentioning packing. There isn't a right or wrong way to pack. Nevertheless, we can all agree that a list of all the necessities you want to take with you must be made beforehand to do this efficiently. By doing so, when the time to pack comes, you ensure nothing is left behind. However, before you've started getting your suitcases ready, let's see why you should even contemplate moving to the country and if there is anything to be gained from it.
An Abundance of Fresh Air
It goes without saying that the air in the countryside is better than in the city. And how wouldn't it be with fewer vehicles on the road and greenery all around? Furthermore, the better the air quality, the better the overall health. In the long run, the longer the life as well.
More House for the Money
Countryside homes tend to be far cheaper than those in urban areas. That means that if you decide to move someplace rural, you will ultimately be getting more house for your money. You can finally get that spacious, dream home you've wanted for years! All while getting to enjoy it in peace and quiet.
Cheaper Lifestyle
Living costs differ from one place to another. However, city life is almost exclusively more expensive than that in the countryside. By relocating to the outskirts, it's your wallet that recovers. We've already mentioned that properties there are more affordable. On top of that, utilities and taxes tend to be lower, along with gas and groceries.
If affordable living convinces you to move, bear in mind that the process itself isn't something you'll be able to execute successfully on your own - what with your age and the difficulty of the moving process itself. Before moving to the countryside as a senior, you'll have to look up and hire a moving company to help out with the task. They'll require you to sign a moving contract beforehand, as well. As is the case with all contracts, it's of high importance that you understand it before signing so that you can decide for yourself what type of contract is the one for you.
A Sense of Belonging
Everyone knows everyone in small communities. People tend to connect better there, and the overall sense of belonging is higher than that in the city, which minimizes the chances of developing post-retirement depression. It's an unwritten rule that people living in the countryside are friendlier. What exactly is the culprit to this is a bit of an enigma. However, the lower stress levels could be one of the reasons why they might be more susceptible to accepting strangers.
A Higher Sense of Security and Relaxation
Statistics show that crime rates in rural areas are far lower than in urban ones. An increased sense of security among those living in the countryside directly correlates to the lower crime rates. It's in part thanks to the safety that residents of these areas can relax. They can enjoy the rest of their days peacefully, without being afraid of something happening to them. Furthermore, the serene atmosphere and slower pace of living also contribute to higher levels of relaxation.
Cons of Moving to the Countryside as a Senior
While swapping the city for the country has its fair share of benefits, there are also a couple of challenges. Some of which could prove deal-breaking for some individuals.
Limited Transportation
Public transportation is practically nonexistent in rural settings, thus complicating getting around. Considering that driving capabilities diminish with age, that means that an older person living in the countryside will have to, at a certain point, depend on others regarding transportation.
Lack of Available Medical Services
Every community, no matter how small, has a physician. But that doesn't mean they are constantly available to check on patients. In many rural areas, doctors operate only a few days a week. The rest of the time, patients cannot get medical assistance. At least, not where they reside. They must go to the next biggest place for help when needed, for regular check-ups and specialized appointments. In urgent situations, this unavailability can prove life-threatening, and unfortunately, even lethal.
Fewer facilities and opportunities for recreation
When you live in the countryside, your hobbies are somewhat limited. There aren't as many facilities out there offering opportunities for recreation and socializing. Many retirees enjoy spending their time attending clubs and various classes. If you happen to be one of them, think twice before relocating, as rural life might not be for you.
To Move to the Countryside or Not?
Now that the pros and cons of moving to the countryside as a senior have been rounded up, the question of whether to move or not arises. It is a question that has no right or wrong answer and one that each individual should answer for themselves. After all, it is you who knows your personal preferences best, and thus, the only one that, at heart, knows what might be right for you.
nd to connect better there, and the overall sense of belonging is higher than that in the city, which minimizes the chances of developing post-retirement depression. It's an unwritten rule that people living in the countryside are friendlier. What exactly is the culprit to this is a bit of an enigma. However, the lower stress levels could be one of the reasons why they might be more susceptible to accepting strangers.
A Higher Sense of Security and Relaxation
Statistics show that crime rates in rural areas are far lower than in urban ones. An increased sense of security among those living in the countryside directly correlates to the lower crime rates. It's in part thanks to the safety that residents of these areas can relax. They can enjoy the rest of their days peacefully, without being afraid of something happening to them. Furthermore, the serene atmosphere and slower pace of living also contribute to higher levels of relaxation.
Cons of Moving to the Countryside as a Senior
While swapping the city for the country has its fair share of benefits, there are also a couple of challenges. Some of which could prove deal-breaking for some individuals.
Limited Transportation
Public transportation is practically nonexistent in rural settings, thus complicating getting around. Considering that driving capabilities diminish with age, that means that an older person living in the countryside will have to, at a certain point, depend on others regarding transportation.
Lack of Available Medical Services
Every community, no matter how small, has a physician. But that doesn't mean they are constantly available to check on patients. In many rural areas, doctors operate only a few days a week. The rest of the time, patients cannot get medical assistance. At least, not where they reside. They must go to the next biggest place for help when needed, for regular check-ups and specialized appointments. In urgent situations, this unavailability can prove life-threatening, and unfortunately, even lethal.
Fewer facilities and opportunities for recreation
When you live in the countryside, your hobbies are somewhat limited. There aren't as many facilities out there offering opportunities for recreation and socializing. Many retirees enjoy spending their time attending clubs and various classes. If you happen to be one of them, think twice before relocating, as rural life might not be for you.
To Move to the Countryside or Not?
Now that the pros and cons of moving to the countryside as a senior have been rounded up, the question of whether to move or not arises. It is a question that has no right or wrong answer and one that each individual should answer for themselves. After all, it is you who knows your personal preferences best, and thus, the only one that, at heart, knows what might be right for you.
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