Emigrating at 72

I think it’s no-one else’s business frankly.

I think she is very fortunate that her son is willing to help her so generously and I assume his wife is happy about this. Why doesn’t she try it out as she is doing in Spain?

I think that the point of conversations like this is not to get involved in others' "business" but to offer different points of view and experiences that may help others in similar situations. I certainly find them interesting and useful, without really having an opinion about the individual.

I think that FCO & legal advice are necessary. Emigrating now has consequences for future care, which may impact on the son's family. They also need to check if pensions would be affected. Also, is language an issue? I understand that there are parts of Austria where many people speak English and finding new friends & interests would not be difficult. But 'elderly parents' who rely on their children / grandchildren for everyday social life may soon find themselves being a burden.

It's their decision and theirs alone, I would not offer any opinion.

I wouldn’t offer any advice - it has to be their own decision, at least partly because if they come to regret it, they can’t blame anyone else for trying to influence them.

The language issue would be a big one for me. There may be plenty of people who speak English but I’d imagine that on a daily basis in so many ways, the lack of at least (say) a former O level knowledge of German would be a major issue.

I wouldn`t offer advice just incase it went belly up,that would make me feel bad.

It's up to them but I would definitely go with a plan B in place. He can support her now, what is something happens and he loses a substantial amount of income? Or can't work? They are fit and healthy now but, unfortunately, life has taught me that can change in a moment. I think your friend needs to be able to rely on her own resources if necessary. Can she assure herself a steady income for the rest of her life? Is there government support if she needs to go into care in future years or if she is no longer able to be supported by her son and DIL?

I hate to be negative about it but I think these are important practical considerations.

I agree Cafeaulait so many things to consider if you are emigrating in your later years. The language issue would also concern me.

I agree with all those who say that the person concerned and her DH are the only ones who can make a decision like this.

My only thought is that if they tried before they decided not to buy in Spain, why do they not do the same for Austria. but perhaps stay this time?

My great aunt emigrated to NZ when she was in her seventies. Her son and family lived there. She had been widowed so it made sense. She lived happily for many more years.

I think if she thinks it will make her happy then go, but I think she should give it a trial for several months before she commits to it.

The only comment I can make is that Austria gets very cold whereas Spain is warmer

nosyla

I think if she thinks it will make her happy then go, but I think she should give it a trial for several months before she commits to it.

There wouldn't be such a language barrier there though.

Emigrating to Austria? That might not be so easy post-Brexit.

nosyla

I think if she thinks it will make her happy then go, but I think she should give it a trial for several months before she commits to it.

Sorry, nosyla I meant to quote inishowen's post about New Zealand!!

Why are so many of your responses so judgemental? The OP isn’t asking for advice or suggesting that she would give advice, she is merely asking what you think of the situation.

Their decision surely and I can see that you are concerned about your friend, but they have family support and they could at least try!
My friend's mum emigrated to Australia after her husband died to move in with my friend and her family. Her mum has been very happy from day one and several friends from the UK have been over to visit too.
Maybe you are more worried about being able to see your friend and spend time with her over coffee etc?
If they don't like it, they can always come back!

Using your logic-why are you on here??

Gabrielle56

Using your logic-why are you on here??

Question to germanshepherdsmum

At their age you cannot be sure of how their health will be in the near future things change so quickly as I know from experience.
Are they sure they can manage financially without the help of SIL if he loses his well paid position,are they aware of their pension payments and conversion rates so many things to consider,will they have a property still in UK if things went pear shaped in the future.?

Azalea99

Why are so many of your responses so judgemental? The OP isn’t asking for advice or suggesting that she would give advice, she is merely asking what you think of the situation.

I think that it's none of my business, actually ?

It all feels a bit Cissie and Ada-ish!!
Heaves up bosom

Picture didn't post

Does your friend know you're asking random strangers for their opinion on what she should do with her life? It's none of your business, let alone ours. She should do what SHE feels right and sod what others think. Life's short. Do what's best for you.

How very thoughtful of you to be so concerned for her.
Is she on Gransnet? Does she know you have posted her behalf?