Abstract
<jats:p>Migration and ageing represent two processes that increasingly shape demographic and broader social dynamics in the contemporary world. With longer life expectancy and the growing number of the elderly, the issue of migration in later life is becoming more visible, with return migration constituting a particularly significant aspect of this phenomenon. This refers to situations in which older individuals, after years or decades spent abroad, decide to return to their country of origin. Return migration in later life raises several questions that go beyond the individual level and concern the functioning of health care systems, social care systems, pension and educational institutions, as well as local communities that must adapt to new patterns of mobility. At the same time, this form of migration reveals the powerful role of identity, memory, and cultural belonging in shaping decisions in later life. The paper argues that migration and ageing, and specially return migration, are not merely personal life choices but also social processes that shed light on broader transformations in contemporary societies. The analysis of this phenomenon provides a basis for a better understanding of the position of the elderly and for the design of policies that may contribute to improving their quality of life and ensuring a dignified old age.</jats:p>