Many retirees want a temperate climate, moderately-priced housing, friendly people, quality healthcare, security and socialization with others of similar age and therefore similar experiences.

Large senior communities are paying close attention to the wants of new clients and are willing to implement the changes needed, such as: interest in fitness – which translates into weight training and aerobics programs, interest in a lot of travel – that’s where the in-house travel agency comes into play – even licensed physiologist are being requested.

Some residents are still holding down jobs and find it easier and less expensive to live in a retirement community, where they can enjoy security, but also have their independence.

If you love a slower pace of life with all the amenities New Mexico has to offer you might want to check some these areas:

Alamogordo - in the Sacramento Mountains.

Albuquerque - and its great medical facilities, a network of city-run senior centers and a plethora of golf courses.

Carlsbad - where you can enjoy a path alongside the Pecos River, year-round golf courses, fishing at nearby Brantley State Park and many other activities.

Deming – with its aquatic center and therapy pool.

Las Cruces – with its year-round golfing and hiking, its university and state-of-the-art medical facility.

Rio Rancho – the close neighbor of Albuquerque.

Roswell – a sophisticated city with its "extraterrestrial" reputation and cultured arts community.

Ruidos – with its five golf courses, a horse-racing track, hiking and fishing at Bonita Lake and a couple of nice ski areas.

Santa Fe – has the best of both worlds, the arts and outdoors; an abundance of big city amenities and an absence of big city hassles.

Silver City – located at the edge of Gila National Forest, has gentle four seasons, a thriving arts community, regional health care center and Western New Mexico University.

Taos with its clean air and water, a lively cultural scene and no aspirations to grow into something bigger.