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Everything You Need to Know About Moving to a Warmer Climate in Retirement
If you’re nearing retirement, you might be wrestling with the idea of staying where you are or moving to a warmer climate. While there are many benefits to staying put, including avoiding the major headache that comes with a major move, you might realize that relocating somewhere warm could be just what the doctor ordered.
There are a variety of health, financial and emotional benefits to moving to a warmer climate. Understanding everything you need to know about the perks of living somewhere warm might just help make your decision to move a little easier.
Health Benefits of Moving to a Warmer Climate
Even if you’re in relatively good health now, it’s always good to plan for the future. If you think a move will be in your plans at some point during your retirement, you might want to consider doing it sooner rather than later. Moving is a lot of work, and doing it while you’re in good health could help you stay healthier for longer.
Moving to a warmer climate for health is great for various reasons, including:
- Vitamin D – Vitamin D has been shown to prevent cancer, improve bone health, and give the body more energy. Exposure to sunlight is a great way to get more Vitamin D in your diet, and a sunny, warm climate is a great way to soak in the sun.
- Physical Activity – During the cooler months, getting enough exercise is hard to keep your body healthy. Scientific research has shown that people get more exercise and stay active during the summer. A warmer climate gives you a chance to make healthy exercise a part of your everyday routine.
- Memory Improvement – Mental performance and alertness is proven to be at their peak when body temperature is high. So, moving to a warmer climate can help improve your memory function.
- Respiratory System – Cold weather can have a negative impact on your heart health and respiratory system. The freezing temperatures can cause your blood pressure to increase, which can cause long-term damage to your body.
Financial Benefits of Moving to a Warmer Climate
The health benefits of moving somewhere warm might be enough for you to call up your local Realtor. Still, there are also financial benefits to living somewhere warm.
- Heating Costs – As you age, it’s natural to have a harder time keeping warm in winter. Pair that with a drafty old house, and you could be spending major money each winter trying to keep your house heated. Warmer climates mean you can get fresh air and keep your windows open, saving you from higher gas bills.
- Downsizing – Moving to a warmer climate means you’ll most likely be spending more time outdoors. Instead of a large house, you might look for a smaller condo or apartment with a shared green space. Downsizing is a great way to save money in your retirement years.
- Winter Gear – If you currently live in a state with all four seasons, you know the toll it can take on your wallet. You are constantly buying clothes, coats and boots to keep yourself warm, and you’re probably shelling out additional money to keep your driveway and sidewalks clear. Not to mention the wear and tear on your vehicle year after year. Warmer climates let you invest that money into essentials that will last much longer and be more fun to wear, like sunglasses, sunhats, and beach gear.
Moving to a warmer climate in retirement isn’t a good fit for everyone. Some people just love the idea of a white winter. But, if you think the benefits of moving to a warmer state outweigh the reasons to stay where you are, it might be time to call Upside. Our team can help you find the right destination for your next chapter and help you coordinate your move. Start the conversation today!
