Choosing a new home

By Robert A. Johnson

"Your motives and expectations are important."

SO MANY CHOICES. My kids want me to live near them. If I move to a different area, or even to another country, I could save a lot of money. Property costs and taxes would be much lower. The weather might be better, too. But I want to stay near my friends. Then again, maybe I should consider one of those places that offers assisted care, just in case I need it someday. What should I do?

Sound familiar? Many of us, especially those of advancing years, face questions like these. One important factor to consider when moving is the mental environment of the location you're considering. Is there an atmosphere of joy and of love for life, or are the prevailing attitudes in the community pessimistic and morose? Also important are the commonly held notions about health and longevity. Is there an expectancy of health of disease, of usefulness or of uselessness?