The She Wasn’t Born Yesterday Podcast features Janet Evans, a former M&C Saatchi advertising creative, and Dr Amelia Haines, a sexual and relationship therapist. The podcast tackles the many unique issues affecting women who are 40+ fabulous.
“Nothing’s off limits and we dive headfirst into topics from homelessness to women using porn, ageing, true crime obsession and life after divorce and DV,” says Janet. “We think women (and hopefully guys too) will resonate.
Recently, former Seniors Rights Service Aged Care Advocate Margaret met with the pair to chat about the realities of ageing and the rights that accompany this journey. Through personal stories, Janet, Amelia and Margaret discuss ageing with dignity, highlighting some of the complexities and the importance of individual rights.
Margaret, with nearly 20 years of advocacy experience, explains that aged care is not synonymous with residential nursing homes. “A minority of seniors require 24/7 residential care; many can access support services while remaining in their homes,” she notes. Seniors Rights Service provides unbiased, independent advocacy and legal advice, ensuring seniors and their families are well-informed about their entitlements.
The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of aged care, emphasising the importance of personal choice, the right to take risks, and the value of maintaining dignity and autonomy.
The podcast also addresses the needs of diverse groups, including First Nations people, multicultural communities, and the LGBTQI+ population, ensuring that advocacy services are accessible and culturally sensitive.
During this candid conversation on life, rights, and growing older, Margaret recounts a touching story of a woman in residential care who struggles with isolation, having had a difficult childhood that leaves her wary of human connection. The surprising solution? A parrot. This colourful companion becomes a bridge, fostering small interactions with staff and fellow residents, slowly softening the woman’s guarded heart. More than just a pet, the bird symbolises the unexpected ways people can reclaim companionship and purpose.
The podcast also delves into the complexities of relationships in aged care. Margaret shares stories of late-in-life romances, sometimes challenged by family objections but defended by the advocates who champion the rights of seniors to love and live as they choose. One gentleman, unfazed by concerns about propriety, simply says, “Don’t worry, love. I can’t get it up anymore. We just cuddle.” A disarmingly sweet testament to companionship and our ongoing desire for physical affection.
Then there is Jack, an aged care resident frustrated by what he sees as an unfair restriction, being denied his beloved beer. Margaret investigates, only to discover that Jack indulges a bit too enthusiastically, causing disruptions to other residents. The resolution involves a compromise: Jack can enjoy his brew in moderation, alongside his mates. A reminder that life’s simple pleasures matter and we have the right to choose how we live.
While discussions around aged care often focus on legalities and systems, the chat reminds listeners that it’s personal stories that underscore why rights matter. Behind every policy is a person, a parent, grandparent, friend, or neighbour navigating the challenges of ageing with hopes, desires and a lifetime of unique experiences, expectations and preferences.
If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, call our caring team on 02 9281 3600. Because, as this episode beautifully illustrates, everyone deserves to age with dignity, joy, and maybe even a parrot or a cold beer.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of aged care or supporting a loved one through the process.
She Wasn’t Born Yesterday tackles the many unique issues affecting women who are 40+ fabulous. Available on all major podcast platforms.
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As this podcast episode beautifully illustrates, everyone deserves to age with dignity, laughter, and maybe even a parrot or a cold beer.
