- 19 de October de 2025
- Posted by: adtusalud-admin
- Category: News
How the Caribbean’s most dynamic nation is redefining wellness, longevity, and quality of life for a new generation of global retirees
The world is aging at an unprecedented pace. Every day, around 10,000 Americans turn 65, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pew Research Center—and a growing number are seeking more than a place to retire. They long to live with purpose, surrounded by health, peace, and community.
Amid this global shift, the Dominican Republic stands out as one of the most promising destinations for wellness and active retirement. Combining political stability, social peace, sustained economic growth, and a welcoming democratic environment, the country has all the right ingredients to become the Caribbean’s leading hub for healthy living and long-term well-being.
“Global population aging is creating a new wellness economy,” says Dr. Alejandro Cambiaso, President of the Dominican Association of Health Tourism (ADTS). “The Dominican Republic has a natural advantage thanks to its climate, proximity to the United States, and the kindness of its people. With vision and planning, we can become the ideal destination for those seeking a healthy, safe, and purpose-driven life.”
Health and Tourism: A Catalyst for Prosperity
Medical and wellness tourism are reshaping the Dominican Republic’s growth model. These sectors not only generate specialized jobs and attract foreign investment but also foster innovation, sustainability, and international standards in healthcare.
The nation’s potential lies in integrating healthcare, tourism, housing, and community development under a shared vision aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the global trend toward healthy aging.
According to Travel + Leisure, the Dominican Republic ranks among the Top 10 best places in the world to retire, thanks to its tropical climate, affordable cost of living, and proximity to North America.
“The combination of health, wellness, air connectivity, and quality of life places the Dominican Republic in a privileged position,” notes Amelia Reyes Mora, Vice President of ADTS and President of AF Comunicación Estratégica. “The challenge is to communicate this offer responsibly and sustainably, with international standards that build confidence among investors, insurers, and future residents.”
Local Action, Global Vision
The Dominican Hotel and Tourism Association (ASONAHORES), together with the Dominican Association of Home Builders (ACOPROVI), has already identified retirement tourism as a strategic opportunity. Their exploratory study calls for a national roadmap that unites government, private sector, and academia around a shared vision of sustainable well-being.
This vision includes expanding infrastructure, improving accessibility, ensuring safety, and promoting international alliances with retirement associations and developers of inclusive, sustainable communities.
At the same time, institutions such as the American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic (AMCHAMDR) are playing a key role through their Health Committee—linking local innovation with the U.S. healthcare and insurance ecosystem to build trust and bilateral cooperation.
Next Steps: Policy, Partnerships, and Purpose
To turn potential into progress, the Dominican Republic must continue advancing in:
• Regulatory frameworks that define standards for healthcare, sustainability, and retirement infrastructure.
• Public–private partnerships that attract investment and ensure responsible growth.
• Evidence-based policies supported by updated demographic and market studies.
• International collaboration to explore partial extension of Medicare and Medicaid coverage in the Dominican Republic.
“The future belongs to destinations that integrate quality of life, sustainability, and technology,” affirms Dr. Cambiaso. “Retirement tourism not only diversifies the economy—it raises the standards of health and well-being for everyone.”
Looking Ahead: From Destination to Home
These themes will be at the heart of the 7th International Health & Wellness Tourism Congress, organized by ADTS and AF Comunicación Estratégica, taking place October 22–23, 2025, in Santo Domingo. The event will convene government officials, investors, financial institutions, and global experts to define the future of health, retirement, and wellness tourism in the Caribbean.
“Our goal is for the Dominican Republic to become not just a tourist destination,” concludes Reyes Mora, “but a place where people choose to live, take care of their health, and enjoy life to the fullest.”
Because more than just a place to visit,
the Dominican Republic is a place to stay… and truly live.