The hidden risks has been revealed.
Retirement offers the chance to enjoy activities like traveling, personal projects, or learning something new. For many, relocating to a warm, affordable country seems like an ideal choice. However, recent research suggests that retiring abroad can lead to an unexpected challenge: loneliness.
A study published in Psychology and Aging examined nearly 5,000 Dutch retirees living abroad and compared them to over 1,300 retirees who stayed in the Netherlands. The findings showed that retirees who moved abroad often experienced higher levels of social isolation, even though they were generally healthier and wealthier than those who remained in their home country.
The research highlighted two types of loneliness: social loneliness, which comes from having a limited number of friends, and emotional loneliness, which stems from lacking close, personal relationships. The study found that those living abroad were more prone to social loneliness, but retirees who kept in touch with family and friends from home, or developed strong connections in their new country, were less isolated.
The study also indicated that retirees who engaged with neighbors and felt a sense of community in their new location had lower levels of loneliness. The researchers explained that older adults who retire in a new country face unique risks related to both aging and migration, which can increase feelings of isolation. Loneliness itself is also associated with poor health outcomes.
The findings suggest that retirees considering a move abroad should plan ways to stay connected with their social networks back home and actively build new relationships in their new environment. By doing so, they can better manage the challenges of loneliness and enjoy a more rewarding retirement experience.
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