For me, I think it is mainly the psychological that causes the symptoms of "maturity leading to aches and pains" to vanish. The freedom to live fully here feels so much greater than in the States ( in my opinion), my activity level is higher here and the over all happiness I experience here drops my blood pressure, relieves most aches and pains, and brightens my mental outlook enormously! Living here may not be the "Fountain of Youth", but it has made a dramatic difference in my feeling of general well-being. Isn't that what all of us expats hope for in our retirement?

 

JB, the warm weather makes a significant difference when it comes to body pain. I had back, elbow, both shoulders, and hand surgeries and torn muscles which I passed on surgery. None of them bother me here, although the big rain does bring out stiffness. In the U.S., older folks tend to migrate toward Florida and other sunshine states for that reason. When I lived in England I hated the cold damp winters so I know what you are going through, so snuggle up to your honey and look forward to your move here. Cheers.