My Mum and stepdad currently live in Spain. They have decided (age 76 and 82) that they want to move to France. They have lived all over the world but have previously been part of thriving ex pat communities. I’ve tried to explain that France is a very different country. In my experience you have to speak French fluently- neither of them do. They don’t even speak Spanish! They are looking at property in rural areas and seem to think that it’ll be easy to assimilate. I’ve tried explaining how tricky it will be and how isolated they might feel but to no avail. Mum has complex medical needs, currently she is well looked after with established contact with her dr in Spain. I think it’s madness to start again as pensioners. Mum has mobility issues so they only really go to shops and restaurants and even then don’t walk far, so won’t be able to explore the area or enjoy days out.
AIBU to keep pointing out what I think are obvious issues or are they right in thinking that low property prices will give them a better standard of living? I’ve always supported them and been proud of their adventurous spirit but this move seems like a step backwards. I’d appreciate the opinion of anyone with more experience- maybe I’m wrong to worry.