What does it mean to age well, especially when living as an immigrant to Mexico?

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Willebaldo Esquivel Reyes, a geriatrician whose approach to medicine focuses on caring for the whole person, not just treating illness. We explore what healthy aging actually looks like, why ageism sometimes keeps people from seeking geriatric care, and how Mexico’s culture of connection and community supports wellbeing as we grow older.

If you’re planning to age in Mexico — or already are — this conversation offers a thoughtful look at what it means to live, and eventually die, with dignity and support.

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In This Episode:

How caring for the whole person inspired Willebaldo to become a geriatrician
Why healthy aging is about more than just ‘maintaining function’
How ageism can prevent us from seeing a geriatrician, and when it’s actually time to make an appointment
Specialized versus generalize doctors, and why it’s good to have a generalist on your team
Are there doctors in Mexico who take advantage of expats with unnecessary treatments?
How retiring to Mexico (and figuring out how to live here) can be cognitively protective as we age
The health benefits of the warm, caring culture of Mexico
Palliative care in Mexico and when to choose comfort versus curative treatments
The accessibility of pain medications at end of life in Mexico
The significant role of social networks (versus institutional care) at end of life in Mexico
Immigration law and the universal right to access healthcare in Mexico
The importance of a ‘palliative companion’ at end of life
Advance Directives in Mexico and what happens if you don’t have one
The one thing that has the most impact on longevity and happiness