4 Senior-Friendly Destinations In Europe

16.05.2024 - 11:49 / forbes.com

American retirees looking to move overseas often wonder how they’ll be regarded in their new home abroad.

I’ve recently earned senior status myself in many countries, and from my vast anecdotal understanding to my own newly acquired experience, I can assure you that you have nothing to worry about as a senior moving overseas.

In fact, just the opposite.

You’ll find that as a senior in many places around the world, you’ll be welcomed with favorable laws, discounts, priority lines, and special visa incentives, as well as being treated with more respect on a day-to-day basis.

The United States has a unique perspective on age. Youth is equated with more societal value and is often seen as the most significant thing a person can bring to the table.

There’s a reason it’s been made illegal to discriminate against those over 40 in the hiring process in the States—because those under that mark are often given a societal edge.

Still, employers may have internal policies that prevent those over a certain age from being hired.

The American Psychological Association goes so far as to claim that “Ageism is one of the last socially acceptable prejudices.”

But that doesn’t have to be the case. Look across the U.S. border to Europe, and you might be pleasantly surprised at the differences in the ways seniors are perceived.

Here are my top recommendations for a fulfilling and benefit-loaded retiree life in Europe.

With long-established social systems that consider care for its citizens to be an inherent right, Europe has lots of security nets in place for the elderly.

Plus, kids are generally taught to respect older people. Manners and formality are valued quite highly, especially in Northern Europe, and family inclusivity across generations reigns in the south.

You’ll notice more seniors out and about in Europe, living active and social lives, particularly around the Mediterranean, where the culture is similar to that of Latin America in respect to family values.

In Greece, you might even be referred to as geronda or gerontissa—literally, old man or woman. Far from being an insult, this is a term of endearment and respect.

While there aren’t any senior-specific residency programs here, there are some good discounts to be had in addition to the cultural benefits. These discounts are available to all EU residents, regardless of which country they call home.

Even if you’re just a tourist in Europe, many discounts apply, including 10% off the Eurail pass for those 60 and over.

Here are four senior-friendly destinations I recommend on the Continent.

Portugal offers a great climate, a wealth of history, vast entertainment options, cosmopolitan cities, a stunning coastline, and superb beaches.

Home to over 700,000