Live Well for Life - who is doing it best?
Celebrating Positive Ageing - in person
Every year, the 1st October is International Day for Older Persons. It was created to celebrate the contributions and wisdom of older adults worldwide, and the value they bring to all of us in our societies.
We thought this date would be a perfect opportunity to present a selection of well known, and lesser known individuals who seem to be taking positive ageing - and our concept of "Live Well for Life" - to heart.
In this section of our website, we will champion those people who are living life to the full as they age, and for whom age is no barrier to a full life.
Please do send in your recommendations - we would love to feature members of local communities who are doing an extraordinary job of embracing later life. Keep checking in to see who has made it to the page.
To begin with we have three celebrities who are still making strides in their fields, going strong, and three locals over 80 who continue to make their valuable contributions to the communities in which they live.
Sir David Attenborough: born 1926, aged 98.
Sir David Attenborough, one of the world’s most beloved naturalists and broadcasters, exemplifies the principles of positive ageing through his remarkable career and enduring passion for the natural world. Born in 1926, Sir David has spent over seven decades educating global audiences about the wonders of nature, advocating for conservation, and inspiring generations to protect our planet.
At 98 years old, Attenborough’s dedication to his work continues unabated. His recent documentaries, such as Plant Earth and Blue Planet, highlight not only the beauty of our Earth but also the urgent need for environmental action—an extraordinary testament to his lifelong sense of purpose. His intellectual curiosity, resilience, and commitment to lifelong learning keep him at the forefront of environmental advocacy.
Sir David’s life is a shining example of positive ageing. His passion for the natural world, his strong sense of purpose, and his ability to adapt to changing times while maintaining his core values demonstrate how older adults can continue to thrive, contribute, and inspire. On this International Day of Older People, we celebrate Sir David Attenborough as a model of ageing with grace, vitality, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
Sir Michael Caine: born 1933. Age: 91
Sir Michael Caine, the iconic British actor, exemplifies the essence of positive ageing through his long and distinguished career in film. Born in 1933, Caine has remained one of the most versatile and enduring figures in cinema, with a career spanning over six decades. Known for his roles in films like The Italian Job, Alfie, and The Dark Knight trilogy, and The Cider House Rules, his work has garnered critical acclaim, earning him two Academy Awards.
At 91 years old, Sir Michael continues to act, demonstrating that age is no barrier to pursuing one’s passions. His recent films, including The Great Escaper (2023), show his continued relevance in the entertainment industry and his ability to inspire younger generations of actors, and adapting with ease to changing times. Beyond acting, Caine’s autobiography reveals his reflective approach to life, emphasizing gratitude, resilience, and the importance of maintaining a sense of humour as one grows older.
Sir Michael Caine is a beacon of positive ageing, embracing each stage of life with vitality, creativity, and purpose. His lifelong dedication to his craft and his ability to find meaning in his work inspire us all to live fully, at any age. On this International Day of Older People, we celebrate Sir Michael as a true icon of ageing well.
Sally Field: born 1946, aged 77.
Sally Field, the acclaimed American actress, is a shining example of positive ageing through her enduring talent, resilience, and advocacy. Born in 1946, Field has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over five decades, with iconic roles in films such as Forrest Gump, Norma Rae, and Steel Magnolias, earning two Academy Awards and a place as one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.
At 78 years old, Field continues to captivate audiences, recently starring in films and TV series, including Hello, My Name Is Doris and Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty. Her ability to balance a prolific career with personal growth reflects the principles of positive ageing—engagement, adaptability, and purpose. Field has also been a vocal advocate for women's rights and mental health, using her platform to champion causes close to her heart, highlighting the importance of staying connected to meaningful pursuits as we age.
Field is known for her advocacy work and has spoken openly about ageing, mental health, and the importance of community. She is a passionate advocate for women's rights, gay rights, and is an active campaigner against climate change. She still stays active both in acting and filmmaking - her lifelong dedication to her craft, her activism, and her personal resilience showcase the vitality and strength that come with embracing each stage of life. We celebrate Sally Field as an inspiring example of positive ageing, showing that creativity, purpose, and passion can thrive at any age.
Inspiring examples of positive ageing in the UK...
Now it is time to celebrate lesser know individuals who through their dedication to purpose and contribution, provide us with great inspiration. These three individuals make a significant difference in their communities with perseverance and commitment, providing vital support where needed.
Cynthia Sweeney has been volunteering at Wakefield Hospice since 2008, driven by a personal connection after her sister received care there. At 80, she recently won the prestigious Volunteer of the Year Award from the Charity Retail Association. Despite her own cancer diagnosis in 2017, she continues to work tirelessly, contributing five days a week at the hospice’s warehouse, sorting donations & assisting with corporate volunteer teams.
Betty Boyd is an active volunteer at St. Joseph's Hospice. Despite her age, she remains fully engaged in various hospice activities. Her dedication is a reflection of the importance of hospice care for the elderly, offering comfort and support to patients in their final stages of life
(https://www.stjhospice.org.uk/about-us/news/hospice-celebrates-inspiring-volunteers/).
Joe Lee, although slightly younger at 71, started volunteering as a gardener at St. Joseph's Hospice in memory of his late sister. He takes immense pride in maintaining the hospice’s gardens, providing a tranquil space for patients and families. His commitment to hospice work, even after losing both his sister and wife, highlights the vital role that volunteers play in such settings.
(https://www.hospiceuk.org/innovation-hub/courses-conferences/national-conference).
Share your examples of inspirational people...
We'd love to hear from you if you know of anyone who is positively ageing, and embracing living well for life. If they are thriving in their older age - or if you are - let us know, so that we can feature them on this page. We all have the power to inspire others, and share how we are ageing healthily and happily, contributing our knowledge and wisdom to those around us. Younger generations need the value of our experience and roads already trodden if they are to learn how to age well themselves.
Let's all change their perceptions of how well it can be done.