Australia is one of the top countries to retire to, according to Smart Company. Of all the U.S. born individuals currently residing in Australia, 22% are over the age of 55 – the age at which Australia allows foreign individuals to retire to the country. However, with Australia’s health care system failing to provide free care to expats, and American seniors at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease, it’s essential that you carefully consider budget-friendly yet effective health care options before you set off for your retirement in the sun.
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Australia’s health care system
Australia’s universal health insurance scheme is similar to America’s, in that it provides Medicare coverage to individuals. But it’s only Australian citizens and permanent residents who are entitled to Medicare. This means that if you’re retiring as an American expat, any care and treatment you require for cardiovascular disease won’t be covered, and you’ll have to pay costs straight out of your pocket. Thankfully, by opting to protect yourself and your health in your new home, you can rest assured that you’ll be well looked after in Oz.
Healthcare options for retired expats
Before you land in Australia to live out your retirement dream, it’s a wise idea to take out personal health insurance. As a senior, you’re more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than any other age group. The Heart Foundation reports that the majority of over 65s in Australia are living with long-term cardiovascular disease. As such, it’s crucial that you take out private health insurance that provides coverage for this illness. In addition, make sure you compare prices for your insurance coverage, as costs can vary significantly between providers and policy types.
Taking care of your health
While cardiovascular disease can be attributed to gender, genetics, and ethnicity, there are behavioral factors which contribute to its onset too. Smoking, a lack of exercise, an unhealthy diet, and frequently drinking alcohol all play a role. Research has found that American seniors are drinking more today than they were two decades ago. Meanwhile, almost 50% of U.S. retirees are projected to be obese by 2030, according to the Congressional Research Service. It’s therefore highly recommended that you view retiring to Australia as a fresh start and seize the opportunity to take back full control of your health. By pledging to get fit, eat well, and ditch unhealthy lifestyle choices, you’re less likely to need to take advantage of your health care policy, meaning your future premiums will remain affordable. But, best of all, you will get to enjoy a long and happy retirement in beautiful Australia.
Australia is the go-to place for many Americans looking to retire overseas. But, it’s important that you do your homework and take precautions before booking your ticket to Oz, as private health insurance coverage is a must. However, the best course of action to take is to adopt a healthy lifestyle, as this will set you up for your entire Australian adventure.