“I thought it was just her depression coming back,” said Liz, whose partner has lived with bipolar disorder for more than 20 years. “She was sleeping all day, getting confused about her tablets, and sometimes accusing me of moving things. I kept thinking, it’s another episode. But when she started forgetting where we lived, the doctor said it could be […]
When you hear that a loved one has a life limiting illness, take the time to find out what palliative care can offer — including the different ways it can be delivered. Palliative care isn’t only about dying. It’s about living as well as possible for as long as possible, with care that focuses on comfort, dignity and connection. Palliative […]
Recently widowed, 75-year-old Angelina had lived peacefully in her building for five years. She had made it her home. She loved the familiar faces, quiet routines, and a sense of belonging. It was her safe place. Then, one day, three neighbours — people she’d always greeted politely — crossed a line. They turned up at her door uninvited, saying they […]
Marnie is 62, sharp as ever, and still working in a tech company. She told me recently: “It’s like I’ve disappeared. In meetings I share an idea, and five minutes later someone repeats it — and everyone nods. It’s not nasty, just as if I’m less visible than I used to be.” Marnie isn’t alone. Recent Australian research shows this […]
When my aunt visited her dad one Saturday, he smiled at her and said quietly, “I’m not much longer for this world.” She laughed it off, replying, “Don’t be silly, you’ll be here for ages yet.” Less than two weeks later, he died. That memory stayed with her. How did he know? Was it intuition, a body’s quiet wisdom, or […]
(Honestly….the only thing that is tougher to swallow are his antiquated opinions). There’s a special moment at every family gathering: the roast is carved, the wine is poured, and Grandpa leans back in his chair, sighs, and says something that makes every Millennial and Gen Z relative want to slide under the tablecloth. He doesn’t mean harm. He’s just quoting […]
When someone in your family dies, things can be complicated—especially if you’ve been estranged. You may worry about whether you have a right to know what’s in their will, or how to even find it if you’re not in contact with the rest of the family. Here are some key steps: Find out if there is a will A will […]
Every Saturday, Sophie brought her dad a meal, and after lunch they’d stroll to his beloved pond to watch the ducks. When asked about his health, he’d always announce with gusto that he was “fit and rearing to go”. Sophie believed him — until one Saturday everything felt suddenly different. He couldn’t (or wouldn’t) leave his favourite armchair. He refused […]
More older Australians are exploring retirement beyond our shores—drawn by rising housing costs, warmer climates, and the potential to stretch a pension or superannuation further. Popular destinations include Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines), Southern Europe (Portugal, Spain), and nearby New Zealand. The dream vs the reality Many fall in love with the idea of living abroad—relaxed pace, sunshine, and […]
Picture this: a cat at the chessboard, tail twitching, claws half-out, playing a sly game where every move is about outsmarting the next opponent. That’s what toxic gossip feels like in a retirement or strata community—more strategy than truth, more claws than kindness. You’ve downsized from the family home, helped your kids into theirs, and enjoyed a send-off with […]
