Health Care Options for Expats in Mexico

Expat Medical Care in Mexico

When considering healthcare in Mexico, the options can be challenging to understand. There are many choices ranging from multiple Mexican health insurance options, private health insurance and even being self-insured. This article lays out your options in manner that is easy to understand. 

Healthcare in Mexico is generally considered very good, with excellent healthcare facilities available in many places. It is worth mentioning that many doctors and dentists in Mexico have received at least part of their training in the United States, and some U.S. doctors have trained in Mexico as well.

The Silver Tsunami – A Rosy Outlook for Baby Boomers?

Baby-Boomers-2

There are approximately 73 million baby boomers in the United States. The age range for baby boomers is roughly from 57 to 75 years old, as they were born between 1946 and 1964.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 10% of baby boomers are categorized as poor or at a poverty level. This means that they have an income below the poverty line, which is defined as $12,760 for a single person and $25,750 for a family of four in 2023.

But beyond that, what is the outlook for baby boomers over the remainder of their retirement years?

Influencing Our Genetic Expression for Better Health

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Recently, I discovered that while our DNA remains unchangeable, we can significantly influence how our genes are expressed through a process involving RNA. This led me to delve into the intricacies of gene transcription, the process where DNA is converted into RNA. I also explored the role that your microbiome, or the communities of microorganisms in our bodies, play in this process. This is particularly relevant because gene expression through transcription and translation shapes the proteins our bodies produce. These proteins, in turn, regulate various bodily functions.  

Learn what I found out and determine for yourself if this makes sense to you!

The Link Between Dementia and Diet

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An Examination of Current Research, the Gut Brain Axis, and Viome’s Proposition

Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a decline in cognitive abilities, including memory, thinking, and problem-solving skills. While the exact cause of dementia is still unknown, recent research has suggested a potential link between diet and the risk of developing this condition. This article will explore the findings of a study published on Medical News Today[1], which discusses the relationship between diet and dementia and the proposition of Viome, a company that offers personalized nutrition recommendations based on an individual’s gut microbiome[2].

Insulin Resistance and Alzheimer’s

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Postprandial insulin response refers to the increase in insulin levels that occurs after eating. This response is an important aspect of glucose metabolism, as insulin helps to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Insulin signals cells to take up glucose from the blood, which is then used for energy or stored for later use.

However, the postprandial insulin response can be excessive for some individuals, leading to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, resulting in higher levels of insulin needed to regulate blood sugar levels. Over time, this can lead to an increased risk of developing conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and, surprisingly, Alzheimer’s disease.

Do I Need to Learn Spanish for Mexico?

Do you need to learn Spanish for Mexico

This is a very common question, and it is typically driven by concerns of awkwardness and inadequacy. So let’s answer that question right now so we can get to the question I suggest you really should be asking. No, you do not need to speak Spanish to visit or even live in Mexico, particularly in the locations more commonly frequented by tourists.

Care for the Caregiver

Self Care Is Not Selfish

It is critical that you accept that care for the caregiver is not selfish at all, rather, it is absolutely essential. You have most likely heard the adage, “life is what happens while you are making plans.” Never is this more poignant than when a family member is facing a period where they will need care, perhaps at an increasing level and for the rest of their life.

This article explores the challenges a caregiver faces: emotionally, physically, and financially. It also explores how some of these challenges can be addressed, or at least mitigated to some degree.

Explosive Medical Tourism Growth for Mexico

Explosive Medical Tourism Growth for Mexico

Perhaps you have heard about the explosive growth of medical tourism for Mexico. With escalating healthcare costs in the US and the rise of medical tourism destinations that offer quality and affordable healthcare, Americans are scurrying to book appointments with healthcare providers far away from home. This notion of medical tourism has even further appeal through the prospect of having beautiful travel experience as well. 

Each year, millions of patients travel to countries that provide highly-specialized medical care either because their healthcare infrastructure is less advanced in a particular area of medical care or because the expense is unacceptably high. This has led to an explosive medical tourism growth for Mexico.

Meaningful Activities for Dementia Sufferers

Meaningful Activities

Assembling a List

As a caregiver at home or in a facility (such as adult daycare or long-term care), you need a list of meaningful activities for those individuals in your care that are suffering with dementia. This will add meaning to their day and help to keep their minds and bodies healthy. Some of these activities will also provide you with a break. You can easily develop a pretty extensive and effective collection of activities that would ideally fall into the following categories:

  • Productivity
  • Leisure
  • Self-Care
  • Restoration and Relaxation

Is Senior Care in Mexico an Option?

Cielito Lindo Resident Room

Open To Exploring Options

If you are reading this article, then you must be open to at least exploring the possibility that senior care in Mexico might offer a viable solution in contrast to what you have been finding in the US. So let’s begin by characterizing what is commonly found in the US. Then let’s try to put aside whatever misinformation or prejudices you may have been fed about Mexico. Lastly, we will go into greater detail on the reasons that senior care in Mexico might be a better solution, at least for some.