The COVID-accelerated switch from cash to cards, a myriad of new payments systems, and even cryptocurrencies has been dazzling for technology advocates. But how about those mostly older people who want to hang onto the likes of coins, notes and even cheques to make their payments? Is anyone looking out for them? Is the cashless society being imposed upon us without adequate consultation a... read more>

Although the less well-off tend to suffer more from cost of living pressures, it doesn’t stop the better-off from complaining too. The dazzling high-tech signage of $2-a-litre petrol can raise a certain anxiety regardless of whether you drive a shiny new Porsche or a dusty old Falcon. But it seems that retirees and older Australians might be particularly susceptible to consumer price infl... read more>

Search for yourself - online media is chock-a-block with stories claiming that sixty is the new forty. They are obviously designed to make us feel good, and surveys boast of seniors' renewed energy and playfulness. Take this cake for a friend who turned fifty-nine at the weekend.  A vision to carefree youthfulness - even complete with a blue vodka jelly perfectly reflecting the birthda... read more>

I was going to write about the positive power of habits, but it was 1pm, so I munched on some handy corn chips despite not being really hungry. Procrastination delayed my start until the following dawn. But as a habitual early exerciser, I had to go for a jog first, followed by my usual reward of a strong coffee. Now to work, but only after a chocolate biscuit as an incentive. These ar... read more>

The world is opening up to international travel, but are you prepared to take the risks of further disease, disappointment and disruption? It seems we live in a parallel universe where you can fly to Paris, France but not Perth, Australia. Even New Zealand’s so-called border opening still involves isolation and quarantine. I’m wondering what more I’ll need to be sure about before taking t... read more>