Information on Taxes in Mexico

By international living

As an expat in Mexico, the taxes you’ll pay will depend, in part, on your situation. If you own property in Mexico, you’ll pay property taxes. If you rent out that property or own a business, have a job, or have interest-bear­ing bank accounts, you’ll owe income tax. Even if you have none of these, you’ll still pay sales tax (known as Value Added Tax or VAT) on most retail goods and services.

If you will be doing business in Mexico or even if you will be employed by a Mexican company, it’s a good idea to meet with an international tax specialist, in your home country, before you move. He or she can advise you how to best minimize your tax obligations, especially if you have significant assets in both Mexico and your home country.

Income Tax in Mexico

You will owe income tax in Mexico if you hold a job, run a business, rent out a property you own, or hold an interest-bearing bank account or security in Mexico. In most of these cases, you will need to file a Mexican tax return.

If you are a U.S. citizen, note that the United States taxes citizens and permanent residents on their worldwide income. Canada taxes citizens on worldwide income unless they have officially moved their legal residence outside Canada. If you earn any income in Mexico it must be declared on your U.S. or Canadian tax return. You will get credit on your home-country return, however, for taxes you have already paid in Mexico.

Income tax in Mexico varies greatly. Like the U.S., your tax rate will depend on the amount of your earnings, deductions, and other factors. Mexico’s individual income tax rates range from 1.92% to 35%. Non-residents (those in Mexico on a work visa/permit) pay 15% to 30%. Mexico’s corporate tax rate is a flat 30%.

Mexican Real Estate Taxes

There are three types of tax that you’ll have for residential property over the years that you own it:

1. A 2% acquisition tax when you buy the property
2. Annual property taxes (known as predial)
3. Capital gains tax when you sell the property.

Many communities in Mexico commonly use a property’s “assessed” value as the basis for these taxes, and the official assessment can be much lower than the property’s market value—in some cases, as low as 30% or 40% of the actual sales price. So on a $100,000 home that has an official “assessed” value of $40,000, you’ll pay $800 in acquisition tax. Under Mexican law, using an assessed value less than the actual commercial value for tax purposes is technically illegal. But we don’t know anyone who doesn’t do it.

Property taxes (predial) in Mexico are very low. It is quite common to have annual property taxes of $100 or less, and they seldom run higher than about $300.

If you sell the property, you’ll owe capital gains tax. Capital gains tax can be figured two ways in Mexico:

1. You can pay 25% of the declared value of the transaction, or
2. You can pay 30% of the net value—the difference between the assessed values at the time you bought the property and when you sell it, taking into consideration how long the property was held, any improvements made, any commissions paid, and other allowable expenses. (If there is a significant difference between the assessed value recorded for the property when you bought it and the value you claim when you sell it, you could be in for a big tax bite.) You should calculate your capital gains tax both ways with the help of an accountant or notario and pay the lower one.

Value-Added Tax

In Mexico, a Value-Added Tax is applied to the sale of most retail goods and services. This tax is 16% in most of the country and 11% in border areas. You will see this VAT added onto the bottom of sales receipts just as would see sales tax added, north of the border.

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18 Chair Exercises for Seniors & How to Get Started

By Melissa Mills | vive health

Exercise is crucial for leading an active, healthy, happy life. When you think “exercise,” you might think “get up and go.” But what if you could be active while still sitting? We have great news — you can!  With chair exercises for seniors, you can perform a seated routine that rivals any you’ve ever done on your feet!

You no longer need to worry that you can’t get the activity you need to be healthy. If you’re looking for an exercise program that provides modified activities due to age, immobility, balance issues, or you’re recovering from an injury or surgery, these workouts are for you!

A seated workout encompasses far more than movements. Chair based exercises will develop your cardio fitness, muscular strength, and flexibility. Here are some of the best chair exercises for seniors. Practice these basic movements, and choose one or two exercises from each category for a well-rounded seated workout.

Like any other workout, we want to begin with a warm-up. Loosening and warming the muscles prepares them for the movements they’re about to do and dramatically reduces the risk of injury. Try these warm-up chair exercises for seniors.

1. Neck Stretch

Sit up straight, and slowly tilt your head toward your right shoulder until you feel a stretch. Hold this position while gradually extending your left arm down and to the side. You should feel a stretch on the left side of your neck. Release, and repeat on the other side. Perform two to five repetitions per side. This stretch will warm up your neck and the group of muscles at the top of your back, and get you ready for arm exercises.

2. Shoulder Circles

In a seated position, place your fingertips on your shoulders. Circle your shoulders forward for fifteen repetitions. Reverse the movement, and circle backward for fifteen repetitions. This exercise will warm up your shoulder muscles and reduce the risk of strain.

Stronger muscles can provide greater balance and stability, which reduces the risk of falling. Being stronger also makes daily life easier. When you can get around with ease, life becomes more pleasurable. Lifting bags and other items that used to weigh you down might serve as a reminder of your improved fitness and health.

3. Bicep Curls (NEW!)

For a simple bicep curl you can take anywhere, all you need is a set of resistance bands . Start by choosing your resistance level, from X-light to X-heavy, and then place your feet on the resistance band, shoulder width apart. Grab the handles of your bands, palm upward, and curl your hands up to your shoulders. Remember to keep your elbows at your sides, and then slowly lower the bands. Repeat for 3 sets of 10. Small, lightweight, dumbbells will also work great.

4. Seated Row

Sit on the edge of your seat with your feet flat on the floor. Hold your arms in front of you, with your thumbs pointed toward the ceiling and your elbows slightly bent. Draw your elbows back, squeezing your shoulder blades together, until your upper arms are in line with your body. Extend your arms again, and repeat eight to ten times. Once you build up more strength, try wearing wrist weights to make it more challenging. This exercise strengthens your shoulders, chest, and upper back while placing little stress on your joints.

5. Shoulder Rolls

Sit tall with your feet flat on the ground. Shrug your shoulders up toward your ears, and slowly rotate your shoulders in a circle—back, down, forward, and back to the top. When you reach the top, reverse the movement. Roll your shoulders forward, down, back, and to the top again. Perform ten repetitions in each direction, for a total of twenty reps. This movement engages your shoulders and trapezius muscles, which are essential for lifting and carrying objects.

6. Toe Taps

Sit up straight with your feet flat on the ground. Bend your toes toward the ceiling and back to the floor. To increase the difficulty of this exercise, sit on the edge of your seat with your legs straight. Keep your heels on the ground as you bend your toes upward and then back down. This variation increases the range of motion. Perform eight to ten repetitions to strengthen your calves and the muscles running alongside your shins. You use these muscles to climb stairs and perform daily activities.

7. Knee Lifts

Sit up straight with your feet flat. Slowly lift your right knee toward your chest, and then lower your foot back to the floor. Repeat with your left leg. Perform ten repetitions per leg, for a total of twenty reps. For an added challenge, pause for a five-count at the top of the movement. This exercise strengthens your quads, which is the largest muscle group in your body. You use your quads in nearly everything you do, and strengthening them will make you feel stronger overall. As you build strength, consider enhancing your workout by using ankle weights for added resistance.

Strengthening your core and abs is crucial for improving balance and stability. Perform these chair core exercises for seniors to improve your muscular foundation and protect yourself from accidental falls. The seated exercises are great for lower back, abs, and glutes. Here are a few activities to build a strong foundation!

8. Tummy Twists for Abs

Sit up straight with your feet flat on the ground. Hold your arms at a ninety-degree angle with your elbows at your sides and your forearms extended in front of you. Rotate your upper torso to the left through a full range of motion. Keep your lower body still, and brace your core by imagining you’re sucking your belly button toward your spine. Return to the middle and twist to the right. Perform ten repetitions on each side, for a total of twenty. This exercise strengthens your obliques, abdominal muscles used for trunk rotation, and will help you maintain good posture. Also, check out the best back braces to improve poor posture.

9. Captain’s Chair

Be sure your chair is sturdy. Sit up straight and grasp the edges of your seat. Slowly lift your feet off the floor. Move your knees toward your chest. Squeeze your abs at the top, and slowly lower your feet back to the floor. Don’t try to move past a comfortable position. If you can only raise your feet a few inches off the floor, that’s fine. This exercise will strengthen your abs and other core muscles, such as your glutes.

Improved cardiovascular health is essential for reducing the risk of heart attacks and improving your overall quality of life. Chair cardio exercises for seniors is one of the best ways to make daily life less tiring. Tired of feeling winded after climbing the stairs? Chair aerobics will strengthen your lungs and your heart, so you’re ready to face the world.

10. Seated Jumping Jacks

Sit up straight, on the edge of your seat. Extend your arms to the sides and then above your head, as you would with a normal jumping jack. Return them to your sides before raising them again. Start slow, and then increase your speed until you’re moving your arms as fast as you can. Perform three sets of twenty repetitions. If you’re exercising in a chair with arms, be careful that you don’t strike the armrests during the movement.

11. Skater Switch

Sitting on the edge of your chair, bend your right knee and place your toe on the floor. Extend your left leg straight out to the side with your toes pointed. Extend your arms straight in front of you, and bend forward. Reach your left arm to the insole of your right foot, raising your right arm behind your body and twisting at your waist. Return your arms in front of you, and straighten your back. Repeat this action ten times, and then switch your legs and reverse the movement for another ten reps. For added difficulty, alternate left and right, quickly changing your leg position between reps.

12. Chair Running

Sit with your legs extended, toes pointed, and arms bent by your sides. Lean back slightly so that your shoulder blades barely touch the back of your chair. Gently lift your feet from the floor. Pull one knee toward you while the other is extended, and then switch, mimicking a running motion. If necessary, grip the armrests or sides of your seat for balance.

13. Seated Pedaling (NEW!)

This seated exercise is perfect for a low impact cardiovascular workout; however, it does require the use of a pedal exerciser. Sit down in a stable, non rolling, chair or even couch. Adjust the tension from mild or moderate, based on your strength and ability.  Simply place your feet on the pedals and pedal for 20 to 30 minutes at a time. The non-slip rubber feet keep it secure while in use, letting you read or watch television while getting in your workout.

14. Seated Tap Dance

Sit with your knees bent and your toes resting lightly on the floor. Extend one leg, and gently tap your heel on the ground. With your leg still extended, point your toes and tap them to the floor. Flex your foot, and tap your heel again. Return to the starting position, and repeat with the opposite leg. Perform the “tap dancing” for three to five minutes. Set a timer, and try to go a little longer each time you exercise.

Seated Chair Exercises for Flexibility

Being flexible, with a full range of motion, makes everything feel better, like reaching down to tie your shoe, or stretching for the top shelf. Flexibility reduces stiffness and pain, allowing you to perform your daily activities. Do these exercises at the end of your workout to stretch your warmed muscles.

15. Seated Forward Bend

This movement stretches your lower and upper back. Widen your legs, and place your feet flat on the floor. Slowly lean forward, dropping your torso toward your thighs. Relax your neck, and lower your hands toward your feet. When you feel a stretch, hold the position for thirty seconds, and then slowly return to the starting position. Repeat three times.

16. Knee to Chest

Sit up straight with your left foot firmly on the ground. Grasp the back of your right knee, and slowly pull it toward your chest until you feel a stretch. Hold the position for thirty seconds, and then repeat with your left leg. Perform three reps per side. This exercise stretches your hamstrings and glutes—big muscles that need to be flexible to prevent injury.

17. Ankle Rotations

Sit up straight, and rest your ankle on the opposite knee. Rotate your ankle in circles. Perform ten rotations clockwise and ten rotations counterclockwise. Point your toes for an additional stretch.

18. Sit and Reach

Sit with your knees together and your back straight. Extend one arm straight toward the ceiling. Stretch your body upward, feeling the stretch along your torso. Look toward your hand to get a stretch in your neck and shoulders. Hold the position for five to ten seconds, and then switch to the other side. Repeat three times per side.

Get Started with Fun Chair Exercises for Seniors

Ready to get started with seated exercise? All you need is a chair and a positive attitude! It’s easy to get started, and there are plenty of resources available to point you in the right direction.

• Ideal Chair

Pick out a good chair. The best chair will have a straight back and will be stable. Please, no wheels. Leave the rolling chairs in the office. You’ll want something with a comfortable cushion, but not a deep armchair you’ll disappear into. A sturdy kitchen chair is a good option.

• Learn from Videos

YouTube is a wealth of exercise information. It’s easier to understand an exercise when you can actually see it being performed. Go to YouTube.com and type in the search bar “chair exercises” or “seated exercises.” You’ll find instructional videos to teach you some basic movements. Remember to perform these fun chair exercises in a safe environment, with someone nearby in case of emergency.

• Take Classes

Yes, seated exercise classes exist! Ask your local gym or community center if they offer chair exercise classes, created specifically for seniors. If not, express your interest in such a class and ask if they’ll provide one in the future. There are infinite variations of chair workouts, even chair yoga! Discover why yoga is a great, low-impact form of exercises for seniors.

When to Consider Chair Exercises for Seniors

Exercising can become difficult and place a strain on joints and muscles as you age. The increased tension can lead to pain and injury. Staying fit is imperative for preventing the very pain and injury overly intense exercise can cause. For an older adult who struggles with this dilemma, chair exercises for seniors are the perfect solution. They help you stay fit and healthy, without placing undue stress on your body. If any of the below descriptions fit you, chair exercises may be just what you’re looking for.

• Poor balance, and a higher risk of falling during exercise
• Joint pain that makes standing painful and difficult
• Limited range of motion or poor mobility
• Recovering from a surgery or an injury
• Beginning a routine and need to start slow and work up to standing exercises
• Ready to try something new and shake up your fitness routine

Benefits of Chair Exercises for Seniors

Seated exercise offers all the benefits of standing exercise, without the risk. Chair exercises will keep your joints flexible, improving your range of motion and mobility. They also strengthen and stabilize your muscles, resulting in improved balance, which is key for preventing falls and injuries. After a few weeks of regular chair exercise, you can expect to see an improvement in your overall health and fitness. You’ll feel better, and your daily routine will be easier. A few benefits of chair exercises for seniors include:

• Improved flexibility and range of motion
• Decreased joint pain and stiffness
• Improved muscle strength and balance
• Increased blood circulation
• Elevated mood and concentration
• Lowered stress levels

Sit down and Get Fit!

Chair exercises may be the holy grail of fitness for seniors. They allow older adults who otherwise would not be able to exercise consistently improve their strength, cardiovascular fitness, and mobility—without the high risk of injury present during traditional exercise routines. Seated exercises are gentler on the joints and will reduce pain, not add to it. Seniors can expect the same benefits from seated exercise that they would from standing routines, and chair exercises can be a lifesaver for someone recovering from surgery or an injury. All you need is a sturdy chair and a desire to become stronger and healthier!

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Mothers In Action’s Annual Thanksgiving Feed Brings Holidays To Seniors in L.A.

By Brian W. Carter | LA sentinel

On Thursday, November 28, Mothers In Action (MIA) and Ward EDC will hold their 24th Annual Thanksgiving Day Senior Feed at Ward Villas—and will be there rain or shine!

Now, at 23 years in, the ongoing partnership with Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker of Ward Villas Senior Complex continues to bring Thanksgiving dinner to seniors and the sick and shut-in throughout the greater Los Angeles area.

Mitchell has noted every year how she is amazed and humbled by the “generosity of the host of volunteers, community partners, sponsors and donors that gave their time, talent and treasure to make a difference in the lives of the seniors, sick and shut-in residents that benefitted from this highly anticipated event.”

MIA’s Thanksgiving is truly something special to behold every year as elected officials, celebrities, law enforcement, and organizations come together to serve the elders in the community. It truly is a heart-warming to see everyone working together from the food assembly line, to serving seniors and their families in the main hall, to seeing cars and vans pull up to receive food to take around the Southland.

Last year saw over 1,000 meals distributed with 200 meals served at Ward Villas and over 800 meals delivered.

“This is just one of the ways that the legacy of our visionary and late founding president of MIA, Brenda Marsh -Mitchell lives on” said Mitchell. Thanksgiving at Ward Villas was started by the late Marsh Mitchell and Lillian Mobley in 1995 to give seniors a holiday meal, who are surprisingly forgotten or neglected during the holiday season.

This years’ turkeys were donated by Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer, Assemblywoman Autumn Burke, Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, Councilmembers Curren Price and Marqueece Harris-Dawson and The Hutt Group.

Each recipient receives a Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings in a recyclable bag, a Thanksgiving card and a special letter letting them know who sponsored the meal.

A special thanks continually goes out to MIA media partner, Bakewell Media, who make sure everyone who receives a meal, receives a Los Angeles Sentinel Newspaper. A special thank you to Chef Marilyn, who’s catering has received rave reviews from all who were fortunate enough to receive a meal.

Sponsors, donors and partners include: Danny J. Bakewell Sr, Chairman of Bakewell Company & Executive Publisher of Los Angeles Sentinel and LA Watts Times, The Brotherhood Crusade, Councilmember Marqueece Harris Dawson, Council President Herb Wesson, Bakewell Media, Holman, Los Angeles Sentinel, LA Watts Times, Oscar Joel Bryant Foundation, Yvonne Wheeler, KROST-KBKG, RSP Insurance and The Bunkley Family just to name a few.

“Mothers In Action is very appreciative of the outpouring of donations of turkeys, monetary support, cards, soda, water, recyclable bags and other supplies,” said Mitchell. “Our mission to improve the quality of life for the underserved children and families in South Los Angeles could not be achieved without the love, support and generosity of our community partners, sponsors, donors and volunteers.”

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Mexico: Home to all expats.

By Nataly Mayne | AMAR Association

Studies reveal that Mexico is the 4^th most welcoming country to expats out of 64 countries ranked last year. This isn´t very surprising as expats, especially Americans, have been moving to Mexico for retirement for quite some time now. But recent studies have shown that now, the specific demographics of American women and British expats, are increasingly coming to Mexico as well.

The categories that were used for the study in which Mexico ranked in 4^th place are as it follows: Quality of Life, Ease of Settling In, Working Abroad, Family Life, Personal Finance and Cost of Living.  When it comes to Mexico, the country really stood up regarding the friendliness of its people. While only 42% of expats in other countries mentioned that it was easy to make local friends, 80% of the expats in Mexico were forming friendships with no problem (Nelson, 2019).

And as the expat community grows in Mexico, Janet Blaser takes the opportunity to tell the story from a female perspective. She managed to get stories from several women around Mexico, for them to tell the reasons why they decided to come here, how it has worked for them and how they have felt in their new home. She mentions that the attractive of being somewhere new is that, once you’re out of your comfort zone, is easier to recreate yourself and do little or massive changes that at the end leave you with a new, better you (DeVries, 2019).

Other things that are mentioned in an interview she had with Expats In Mexico, is that, whenever you’re adjusting to a new environment, the precautions are always the same. Many are the news we hear about violence in Mexico, or even their sexist culture. However, many women expats have been able to live comfortably while taking the same safety measurements as taken in other places, as well as they’ve been able to create businesses and have male employees working underneath them (DeVries, 2019).

 As for the British expats, there has also been an increasing tendency of them making Mexico their home. Apparently, the recent situation with Brexit might be the reason more brit expats to Mexican beach towns, as they are comfortably similar to what they would find in Spain, Italy or southern France (Yucatán Expat Life, 2019).

However, for British expats, the move might not be as easy as it is for their American friends. Not only because one trip might be long enough, but because more trips than one might be necessary. One of the main tips for brit expats trying to move to Mexico is to visit several times and during different seasons, as to make sure you can handle the temperatures and have everything you might need for those temperatures.

As it has been for several years know, we know Mexico will be waiting for all these new demographics with arms wide open.

Get with the winning team: mixed-age teams are the future in workplaces.

By Nataly Mayne | AMAR Association

Diversity and inclusivity in the workplace have been topics with more and more mentions at work meetings. As we grow into a more conscious society, making sure that everyone is getting a piece of the pie in a fair, ethical way, is something that should be monitored in every company but that wasn’t always. But are senior generations being taken care of as well?

When we look at todays’ statistics and realize that the a very large part of the population in the years to come will be considered senior, we question ourselves: why are most job applications looking for people between 30-40 years old? There is a belief that most people want to retire at 60 and stop working, however, this is not a reality because of economic and health reasons. Many people can’t afford to stop working right as soon as they retire. Not only that, but so many of us are used to work through our entire adult lives that once retirement comes up, we don’t feel like quit working. And what’s a better reason to keep working than loving what you do? Actually, there is: working can delay diseases like dementia and will help you feel younger as you stay active physically and mentally (Botkin, s.f.).

According to an interview for MarketWatch, Paul Irving states that, not only are companies in need of improving their spaces for older generations, they also need to start considering strategies on involving mixed-age teams. Intergenerational groups of people helps as you work with the energy and speed of the young, as well as with the youth and wisdom of the age (Hannon, 2019).

One would naturally think that employers want people with experience, and therefore, seniors would be a perfect option for an employee. However, this is sometimes met with ageism and the lack of training and flexibility many senior workers need to succeed now that technology changes every day.

Mercer is one of the largest HR companies in the world and they have established 10 ways to improve your workspace in order for it to be “age-ready” (Sonsino, 2019).  Many of them also can be applied for younger employees, however, research on how to do this needs to be done in order to avoid assumptions. As with any jobs, whenever there is a career development in the works, it can help improve performance. That and improving the retirement plans is also something that needs to be discussed by assessing what your employees want and need.

But the most important part of this process is tackling ageism. Ageism can be found in the workplace in ways you won’t suspect. It is important to observe and have honest conversations with your employees about it so that proper feedback can be given, and any situation can be improved. Remember that communication is key in any type of relationship, including work related!

Best Countries to Retire Based on Cost of Living, Safety and Visa Requirements

By Sourabh Jain | wealthup

Retiring abroad is becoming the new trend. People do it for new experiences, to relax and for a lower cost of living. There are multiple things one must keep in mind before actually going and deciding a country or place to retire.

There are few things to keep in mind for various countries before you think or before you decide to travel to that country. The most important ones are as follows –

• Cost of Living, Renting or buying property
• Visa Requirements
• Safety

Panama

Panama topped the 2019 Annual Global Retirement Index. But it is not because of its cost of living index which is at 73. One can easily rent a house with sea views there for less than USD$1,400 a month and it is even more affordable in the outskirts. But it offers much more important and attractive things.

There are benefits such as one time duty exemption for household items. The limit is set to $10,000. Also, a 100% duty exemption on the purchase or importation of a vehicle every two years is allowed to the expatriate retirees. Besides there are discounts on entertainment tickets and air/transportation fares.

But to be able to qualify for these benefits one needs to have a retirement visa.

Malaysia

The cost of living Index of Malaysia is 39.38 which makes it a really affordable place to live. A one-bedroom apartment’s rent costs less than $400 a month. Two people can easily live on $1990/month (which includes rent) in places like Penang.

It is one of those few South East Asian countries which is also among the top 50 safest countries list. Also, it ranks really high in the peace index with its index being 35/163.

It does a pretty good job when it comes to healthcare and housing options for retirees. Also, it is multicultural and therefore there is respect for each other’s cultural and racial differences.

The visa suggested for retirees is the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program. It allows one to live in Malaysia permanently for 10 years, but there are some financial requirements that are needed to be met. Besides, it has one of the most beautiful beaches to relax at.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica ranks fairly good when it comes to both the global peace index( 40/163) and the cost of living index ( 50.89).

It is among the first few countries to provide a special benefits package for the expatriate retirees.

There are other benefits too – good healthcare, rich biodiversity, a tropical climate, and a healthy diet.There are various things to do as well, if you are adventurous enough – whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, jungle hikes, and canopy tours.

One needs a minimum of $1000/month as pension income to be able to apply for the Pensionado visa to stay long term.

Chile

This is a South American country known for its high standard of living, beautiful nature, big developed cities and welcoming nature. The cost of living index score for Chile is also quite low at 47.73.

The Global Peace Index ranks Chile higher than Malaysia at 28/163. Even though it is a peaceful country, there is a risk of severe earthquakes as it lies in a seismic zone.

One can apply for a retirement visa as long as he/she can prove that they are financially independent and stable.

Mexico

It may be a surprise to many as to how Mexico made it to the top 5 list of best countries. It is certainly not considered very safe or even very cheap to live in compared to the other countries in this list, but there are some positives. International Living ranks them 3rd amongst their best places to retire list.

It has a warm but not too hot climate. There is an abundance for entertainment amenities and it’s easy to settle down and get a house to live in. If one is aged above 60, then he/she can get hold of a national senior discount card which helps one get discounts on goods and services which usually range from 10% to 20%.

Retirees can get a temporary resident visa, which is valid for four years. One needs to have a  minimum monthly income or asset requirements or by own property in Mexico in order to qualify for it. One can even apply for a permanent resident visa, but this has higher income and asset requirements.

Bottom Line

One may wish to retire at any of these 5 countries or maybe even something out of these choices. But it really boils down to what kind of an environment/place one is looking for, the cost of living and unique individual needs of a retiree. A retiree may not be bothered about the cost of living at all, and is more focused on the quality of life and safety. For those, there are countries like Australia, Canada and Austria which fair pretty well in that case. Whatever may be the choice of country or place for retirement, the retiree should be satisfied and be able to have a happy retirement.

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Healthy Eating for Older Adults

By Esther Ellis | Eat Right

Eating a variety of foods from all food groups can help supply the nutrients a person needs as they age. A healthy eating plan emphasizes fruit, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat or fat-free dairy; includes lean meat, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts; and is low in saturated fats, trans fats, salt (sodium) and added sugars.

Eating right doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with these recommendations from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans:

• Eat fruits and vegetables. They can be fresh, frozen or canned. Eat more dark green vegetables such as leafy greens or broccoli, and orange vegetables such as carrots and sweet potatoes.
• Vary protein choices with more fish, beans and peas.
• Eat at least three ounces of whole-grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice or pasta every day. Choose whole grains whenever possible.
• Have three servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy (milk, yogurt or cheese) that are fortified with vitamin D to help keep your bones healthy.
• Make the fats you eat polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Switch from solid fats to oils when preparing food.

Add Physical Activity

Balancing physical activity and a healthful diet is the best recipe for health and fitness. Set a goal to be physically active at least 30 minutes every day — this even can be broken into three 10-minute sessions throughout the day.

For someone who is currently inactive, it’s a good idea to start with a few minutes of activity, such as walking, and gradually increase this time as they become stronger. And always check with a health-care provider before beginning a new physical activity program.

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Quintana Roo wants to attract more North American retirees

By Yucatan Times

Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico – La Asociacion Mexicana de Asistencia en el Retiro (AMAR), a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging and helping people from outside Mexico retire in this country, is aiming to attract 150,000 Americans and Canadians to Quintana Roo over the next five years through the construction of new residential estates tailored to the needs of retirees.

Javier Govi, president of AMAR, said the organization has already held talks with the Iberostar and Mayakoba hotel chains about the development of residential projects in the northern part of the state on Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

He said that AMAR is also involved in the construction of two residential towers in Cancún whose target market is wealthy North American retirees, adding that it has signed an agreement with the Association of Cancún Real Estate Professionals to join forces to develop infrastructure targeting the same community. They include specialist medical centers and recreation facilities.

Govi said that studies conducted by AMAR show that the income of people who live in areas where there are international retirement communities is 1.5 times higher than average as a result of retirees’ spending on the goods and services they require.

He added that residents also benefit from spending on urban infrastructure aimed at older people, such as mobility access ramps.

AMAR estimated three years ago that there were some 27,000 retired foreigners living in Mexico, bringing in income of US $223 million. It predicts that the latter figure will increase to $1.37 billion by 2030.

The south of Quintana Roo also appears set to benefit from a greater influx of retirees. Canadian company K & A Associates announced early this year that it will build a US $400-million medical-residential project in the state capital, Chetumal.

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