A Tennessee mother’s determined search for a healthier habitat for her autistic son led her to a surprising new home in southern Italy. Lynnette Elser relocated to the small village of Latronico after witnessing a dramatic improvement in her five-year-old son Kenny’s respiratory issues and sleep-changes she attributes to the cleaner air and slower pace of life. Her story highlights both a growing trend of families prioritizing wellbeing through relocation and Italy’s efforts to combat population decline in its rural communities through initiatives like affordable housing programs [[1]], [[2]], and [[3]].
- Lynnette Elser moved to Latronico, Italy, with her autistic son, Kenny.
- Five-year-old Kenny had previously experienced severe breathing problems and was unable to sleep through the night.
- Kenny’s health significantly improved in Latronico, prompting his mother to relocate to the mountain village permanently.
A mother’s search for a better quality of life for her son has led her to a small village in southern Italy, where she says a dramatic improvement in his health has changed their lives. The story highlights a growing trend of people seeking out quieter, more rural locations for health and wellbeing, and underscores the appeal of Italy’s initiatives to revitalize its smaller towns.
Lynnette Elser, from Crossville, Tennessee, first learned about Latronico through a CNN report detailing a government program offering affordable housing in an effort to combat population decline. In September 2024, she purchased a renovated 100-square-meter home in the village for €50,000 through an online platform – without ever having visited it in person.
Elser initially intended to use the property as a vacation home, a peaceful retreat away from mass tourism near both the sea and mountains. However, a single visit with her five-year-old son, Kenny, who is autistic, quickly altered those plans.
“We are happy with our quiet and regulated life in Italy,” Elser said.
Before moving to Latronico, Kenny had struggled with severe respiratory issues and was unable to sleep soundly. During their first night in the village, Elser noticed an immediate and remarkable change. Her son was breathing freely and appeared more relaxed than she had ever seen him. She initially suspected a malfunction with the pulse oximeter she routinely used to monitor his blood oxygen levels, which consistently read above 95 percent with a stable heart rate. After testing a second device, the readings remained consistent.
Overwhelmed by the positive change, Elser decided to purchase the entire property. She believes Latronico’s unique location – high in the hills, surrounded by forests and free from smog and heavy traffic – played a crucial role in her son’s improved health. The village, home to around 4,500 residents, is located in southern Italy.
«Wir sind glücklich mit unserem ruhigen und geregelten Leben in Italien.»
The contrast between life in Latronico and her previous home in Tennessee is stark. Elser says neighbors in Tennessee were more likely to offer complaints than friendly gestures, while in Latronico, she has experienced a welcoming and supportive community. Locals affectionately call Kenny “bellissimo angelo” (beautiful angel), and he is often gifted sweets at the supermarket during holidays.
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“We are happy with our quiet and regulated life. When he starts school, I will focus on learning Italian, as I will eventually need to get my driver’s license, and I will start up with my hobbies again,” Elser concluded.
