60 is my happy age because…
For many joining the over 60 club is one of the happiest times in their lives. Whether it’s finally feeling confident in your own skin, possessing the wisdom that only age can bring or knowing you can say whatever you want, there are so many things to celebrate turning the big six-oh. But don’t take our word for it, our Over60 community members were more than happy to share why their sixties is their happy age.
Anna Buxton, 60 from Fingal Bay, New South Wales.
“Finally at 60, I can touch and experience the 'freedom' I have been working for all my life. My time is my own. My choices are made with my needs in mind. It may sound selfish, but my children are happy and successful in their own lives -independent and content - and I can pursue my interests’ guilt free. It's about a change in priorities. At 60 I recognised that, as a woman, I willingly put my family, husband and children first. I no longer work, so I can finally enjoy the luxury of sleeping in, reading books, walking along the beach alone and travelling to interesting places that don't have to be child friendly. An added bonus is having the time to spend with my grandchildren as they explore the world. Life is good.”
Sandra Johnston, 64 from Worongary, Queensland.
“My parents and grandparents died young (before they even reached 60) so longevity was not expected for me. I’ve had many health problems and am taking a lot of medication BUT feel the best I’ve ever felt. I'm loving my life. As a celebration for mine and my husband’s 60th (and our 40th wedding anniversary), we travelled all around the US and took a cruise to the Pacific Islands with our whole family. My parents never got to have a holiday as my Mum died so young so I wanted to travel and also spend whatever I could afford when I had the money doing things with my family while I could. I like to buy them things they want or need NOW and share in the enjoyment rather than leave them money when I'm dead and gone. I know the guilt I felt inheriting my parents life's work when I was only 23. I also volunteer at the primary schools where grandchildren attend and with community groups aiding children in general and people with mental health issues. I love my life since turning 60 and regularly thank my angels and the Universe for the good fortune that is my life. The older I get the more I know about myself and my body. I now know at 64, I'm okay exactly as I am and I tell my kids and my grandkids they are perfectly okay exactly as they are too.”
Doug Mullett, 64, from Werribee, Victoria.
“I’m single, just retired and no real ties. At 60 I did a tandem parachute jump - real fun! Then I got a ticket to freedom and adventure; I got my motorcycle learner’s permit and a small bike. A year later I got my P’s and at 62 I found the love of my life. SUZI is no lightweight (she’s around 220 kg) but she’s strong and can carry me nearly anywhere. She and I have travelled locally, gone to Perth and then to Alice Springs through the desert and recently to Tibooburra. She keeps me on my toes and, despite the fact I love her, I know she’s taking me for a ride. She’s a Suzuki V-Strom, and as a Stromtrooper, every ride is an adventure - whether I planned it to be or not.”
Kay Fein, 62 from Essendon, Victoria.
“When I was in my 20’s I dreaded thinking about how life would be when I was 60. Now I love living and making decisions that affect only me. I have more confidence and cheek than ever. I don’t feel isolated and can strike up a conversation within a group without waiting for an introduction. Despite my complex health issues that almost took my life some 16 years ago, I have focused on the positives taking those massive steps forward. Following my divorce, I purchased an apartment overlooking the very familiar Lygon St in Melbourne, work as an event manager for a children’s charity, part of my owner’s corporation and volunteer. I also take my sweet little dog on her daily runs and she has such a friendly manner that conversations strike up and friendships are forged in the grounds of Princes Park. 60 makes me happy because I have the freedom and ability to contribute to society and socialise wherever I go.”
Wayne Wilson
“I nearly didn't get past 40 (stroke) and I spent my 60th in hospital but other than that I am proud to have made this far and quite happy in retirement although it came a little earlier than I had planned, I have grandkids and a little workshop to tinker in and make stuff for my kids and grandkids, I have my motor scooter which I ride 3-4 days a week and a little car for when I have a grandchild to transport, I am not wealthy but I am happy, what more could I want.”