By Andrew Mastrandonas

Founder, Companera/Companion

You Can Stay in the Country Even as You Age. Care at home is available!

Costa Rica is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, welcoming culture, a great climate, and a variety of interesting locations in which to live, making it a favored destination for expats and retirees, particularly for retirees from the US, Canada, and even Europe. However, as we age, the need for additional assistance or care at home often becomes a pressing concern.

Oftentimes, many expats and retirees relocate to Costa Rica in their 50s, 60s, and even 70s, but when they need help at home they often are unsure of what to do. Oftentimes, expat retirees end up going back to their home countries to seek care because they’re unaware of the options for care in the country, particularly home care, right in their own homes. Thankfully, this is changing.

Costa Rica offers a range of options and resources to help you maintain your independence and comfort while you embrace your golden years in this beautiful country.

Understand Your Care Needs

The first step in ensuring a smooth aging experience in Costa Rica is to evaluate your care needs. Are you looking for assistance with daily activities like bathing and dressing, or do you need specialized medical or nursing care? Understanding your requirements will help you determine the level of support necessary and guide your subsequent decisions.

Visit our website: HomeCareCR.co

Explore Home Care Services

Costa Rica has a burgeoning market for home care services, which can provide the support you need to live comfortably. Several agencies offer a variety of services, ranging from companionship and assistance with daily living activities to skilled nursing care. Research local home care providers, looking for ones with positive reviews and recommendations from fellow expats or locals. The Costa Rican Social Security Fund (Caja) can also be a useful resource for finding care services. The ARCR, the “Association of Residents Costa Rica,” is an extremely useful organization, too.

We founded “Companera/Companion” in 2025 to provide professional home caregivers for expats and locals, based on decades of experience in this field. Companera/Companion is the result of significant experience building successful home care companies in Asia and Europe, bringing professionalism, best practices and compassionate, trained and experienced home caregivers to expats in Costa Rica, at low prices compared to North America and Europe.


Consider Assisted Living Facilities

If you find that you need more than occasional assistance, consider transitioning to an assisted living facility. There are several options throughout the country that cater specifically to retirees. These facilities often provide not only personal care but also social activities, meals, and transportation services, allowing you to maintain a vibrant lifestyle while receiving the support you need. A quick Google search will identify several assisted living facilities and nursing homes, however, most are located in the San José area.

Build a Support Network

Establishing a network of friends, neighbors, and local community members can be invaluable as you age in Costa Rica. Engaging with local expat groups can provide both emotional support and practical resources. Many expats have walked the path you are on and can share their experiences and recommendations for care services. Your network can also assist with daily errands, companionship, and transportation to appointments.

Stay Informed About Local Healthcare

Navigating the healthcare system in Costa Rica can be complex, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with local medical facilities and services. Understand how to access both public and private healthcare, and ensure you have appropriate health insurance coverage to help offset potential medical expenses. Some international hospitals and even clinics often have staff who know some English, making it easier for expats to communicate their needs.

Legal and Financial Planning

As you navigate the aging process, it’s crucial to ensure that your legal and financial affairs are in order. Consult with a local attorney to understand the requirements for wills, healthcare proxies, and power of attorney in Costa Rica. Additionally, consider discussing your financial options for long-term care and ensuring you have the necessary funds available for any potential future needs.

Embrace the Local Lifestyle

Finally, staying active and engaged with the local culture can significantly enhance your quality of life as you age. Costa Rica is famous for its “pura vida” lifestyle, which emphasizes living life to the fullest. Engage in community activities, take up hobbies, and enjoy the nature that surrounds you. Staying physically active and socially connected can play a critical role in maintaining both mental and physical well-being.

Aging as an expat or retiree in Costa Rica offers numerous opportunities for a fulfilling and enriched life. By planning, building a support network, understanding your care options, and fully immersing yourself in the local culture, you can navigate the challenges of aging while continuing to enjoy all that this vibrant country has to offer. With the right resources and mindset, you can ensure that your twilight years are spent in comfort and joy in your Costa Rican paradise.

Andrew is the founder of successful home care companies in Asia, “Pillar,” and a co-founder of “Eldy,” in Switzerland. He lives in the San Ramon area and first came to Costa Rica in 2005, with a few stints in Asia. Learn more by visiting Companera/Companion website or careline via WhatsApp: 8321-5035

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The views expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of A.M. Costa Rica. The newspaper assumes no responsibility for the content.

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