When meeting people who are contemplating where to live as they approach retirement, there is a common sentiment expressed.

"Now, living comfortably is more important than making money." I resonate with that sentiment. After retirement, factors like proximity to hospitals, convenience for shopping, safety, and places to socialize become much more important than commuting. By those standards, Rowland Heights is a neighborhood that Korean seniors should definitely consider.

The first thing to look at is access to healthcare. As we age, having hospitals nearby is increasingly beneficial.

In Rowland Heights, there are large hospitals like Emanate Health Queen of the Valley, PIH Health Whittier, and Pomona Valley Medical Center located within about a 20-minute drive. This makes it relatively easy to receive care not only in emergencies but also for regular health check-ups and chronic disease management. If you expand your search a bit, you can find medical facilities that offer Korean-speaking doctors or translation services, which is a significant advantage for Korean seniors who may feel burdened by the English language.

The climate is also a key factor. There are almost no winters that drop below freezing like in Korea, and it is rare to have days when snow makes going out difficult. Winters are mild with plenty of sunny days, making it great for regular walks or light exercise. Of course, there are hot days in the summer, but thanks to Southern California's relatively dry weather, it feels different from the humid heat in the southern U.S. For those with joint issues or cardiovascular diseases, the relatively stable climate throughout the year can enhance their quality of life.

Convenience is also quite good. There are nearby H-Mart and various Asian markets that make it easy to find Korean ingredients. In addition to Korean restaurants, there are many options for Chinese, Taiwanese, Japanese, and Vietnamese cuisine, broadening the choices for dining out. The ability to take care of necessities close to home is a surprisingly significant advantage after retirement.

Community is an important aspect as well. Living alone can lead to feelings of loneliness, so having opportunities to meet people is beneficial. Nearby Korean churches and community centers often host senior gatherings, meal services, and hobby activities. Additionally, the LA County Senior Center offers various services such as lunch programs, health education, exercise programs, and transportation assistance, which can help seniors stay socially active after retirement.

Safety is also relatively stable. While basic caution is necessary in any area, Rowland Heights has well-established residential neighborhoods and a high proportion of family households, maintaining a relatively calm atmosphere.

Of course, there are downsides as well. The biggest drawback is that having a car is essentially a necessity. As one ages and driving becomes difficult, there may be a need to rely on Uber or Lyft, or seek help from family. Therefore, it is advisable to plan for transportation options in the long term after retirement.

In summary, Rowland Heights is more of a practical retirement destination than a glamorous one.

With hospitals nearby, a mild climate, access to Korean food and Asian cultural life, and a connection to the Korean community, it offers conditions that can be quite satisfying for Korean seniors dreaming of a healthy and active retirement lifestyle.