Malcolm, a resident at McQuoin Park Retirement Living, sees ageing as something to embrace rather than fear. Now in his nineties, he is committed to making the most of every age and stage of life, focusing on living well and appreciating each day to the fullest.
‘Ageing to me is living with the present, and at present, I'm fit and well,’ he said
Not one to sit around, Malcolm has recently been on an overseas holiday with the family,
‘We were out and about every day and I was able to keep going and sometimes at night and that was great.’
Malcolm’s outlook centres on maintaining a positive attitude, staying curious, and nurturing his passions. He finds joy in music, art, historical buildings, and stories. To remain engaged and informed, Malcolm makes it a point to read regularly, keeping his interest in news and world events. He is also a lifelong learner.
"We must recognise that some of our brightest minds are among older people, regardless of any disabilities they may have. It's important to value their wisdom and their incredible ability to explain whatever we want to know,’ he said.
Another interest Malcolm is deeply passionate about keeping up his exercise routine, and is a regular participant in the Mind+Move exercises class at the McQuoin Park Wellness Centre.
‘I make it a priority to attend every exercise class offered here and hardly ever miss a session. Being punctual is important to me. I enjoy playing table tennis to stay active, and I take every opportunity to go for walks to maintain my fitness,’ he shared.
‘I genuinely feel that I’m in better shape now than I was when I first arrived here four years ago. I have no aches or pains, and I’m free to go for a walk whenever I wish. I’m careful about what I do, but I’m able to be my own presence and the instigator of what I want to do.
Freedom, Friendship and Fellowship
Malcolm deeply values his place and freedom within the McQuoin Park community, where a genuine sense of belonging enriches his daily life.
‘Being part of this vibrant community is something I truly appreciate. The carers here are outstanding – I couldn’t wish for better support. My apartment feels inviting and comfortable, and I get so much pleasure from looking out over the magnificent blue gums,’ Malcolm shared.
Malcolm also speaks of friendship and fellowship as important pillars of life.
‘We must keep our friends, yes, they come and go at this age, but we must keep our friendships in repair,’ he said.
‘I've moved about quite a bit, I haven't taken my friends with me so much because where they are, some of them are still in Queensland and some of them are not, and some of are here.’
‘I think the important thing here is not so much friendship, but a good fellowship. That's the important thing here as one ages, fellowship and caring for the other person,’ Malcolm said.