Dr Nori Graham doesn’t believe in the word retirement. The emeritus consultant in the psychiatry of old age, and former chair of the Alzheimer’s Society, believes it implies stopping being engaged in activities. “It is my view that ‘ageing well’ requires ongoing engagement with people and in activities that one enjoys,” she says.
“I love my life and I love being busy. I am very lucky that I’ve never had any serious physical or mental illness. I’m fortunate I inherited good genes, had parents who made having a good education very important, and have been happily married to my husband Philip for over 60 years, with whom I have three children and five grandchildren. I’m proud of the things I have achieved in my life and I think all these things contribute to ageing well.”
The last phase of life is often seen as rather depressing, but she believes it can be highly enjoyable and fulfilling. Her secret?
Shorts
Voluntary and part-time work keeps my mind engaged
