Growing older comes with its fair share of challenges — but it also opens up opportunities for personal growth, freedom, and connection that we might never have experienced in our earlier years. Positive ageing is all about recognising and embracing the benefits that come with this stage of life — and creating a future full of possibility.
We often hear stories of decline when it comes to ageing. But just as powerful, and far more inspiring, are the stories of people who have turned later life into a time of creativity, adventure, learning, and deep fulfilment. These stories remind us that while we can’t control everything about getting older, we can control how we approach it.
What does positive ageing look like?
Positive ageing doesn’t mean pretending there are no challenges. It simply means not letting those challenges define you. It’s about focusing on what’s still possible — and often, that’s a lot more than we might expect.
Here are just a few examples of positive ageing in action:
- A man in his early 70s, who always loved music but never had the time to pursue it, takes up guitar lessons. Before long, he’s playing in a small community band and even performing at local events.
- A woman in her 60s enrols at university, chasing a passion for history she had put aside while raising a family and working. She thrives among students decades younger than her and earns her degree with honours.
- A couple in their late 60s sell their large family home and embark on the adventure of a lifetime: slow-travelling through Asia, staying in local villages and learning the language along the way.
- A former tradesman in his late 70s finds new purpose by volunteering his skills with Habitat for Humanity, helping to build homes for those in need.
- A grandmother in her 80s begins writing her memoirs, finding joy and meaning in capturing her life stories for her grandchildren.
Every story is different — but the common thread is people refusing to let age limit their dreams or contributions.
Why positive ageing matters
There’s a growing body of research showing a positive outlook on ageing can actually impact physical and mental health. Studies have found people with an optimistic attitude toward ageing live longer, recover faster from illness, and are more likely to stay active and engaged in life.
A positive view of ageing can also:
- Reduce the risk of depression
- Strengthen social connections
- Improve resilience when facing health challenges
- Encourage ongoing learning and growth
In short, how we think about ageing can shape how we experience it.
Finding your own positive ageing path
Positive ageing doesn’t have to mean skydiving at 90 or running a marathon. It’s about finding what brings you joy, meaning, and a sense of purpose — whatever that looks like for you.
Some ideas for getting started:
- Try something new: Whether it’s painting, yoga, travel, or a new language, stepping outside your comfort zone keeps life exciting.
- Stay connected: Friendships and community involvement can boost wellbeing and help maintain a sense of belonging.
- Move your body: Staying active supports both physical health and mental sharpness — and it’s never too late to start.
- Set fresh goals: Setting goals, big or small, gives a sense of direction and achievement.
- Give back: Volunteering, mentoring, or simply sharing your skills can be incredibly fulfilling.
The key is to stay open to new experiences and to keep asking: what would bring me joy right now?
Share your story!
We know there are hundreds — even thousands — of inspiring stories of positive ageing among our GrownUps community. You don’t have to be famous, or have climbed Mount Everest at 80. Every story of living well, learning something new, or making a difference in your own way is worth celebrating.
We’d love to hear your experiences — big or small — and to help inspire others to embrace the possibilities that come with later life.
Head over to our forum and share your positive ageing story.
Whether it’s a new hobby, a personal triumph, a funny anecdote, or a life lesson you’ve learned with time — your story could be exactly what someone else needs to read today.
Let’s celebrate the many ways we continue to grow, thrive, and contribute — at every stage of life.
