Print this page Coming of Age after 60: Reframing the Afternoon Stage of Life

Longer lives are changing what it means to grow older. This interactive symposium explores new ways of thinking about life after 60, drawing on the work of Australian thinkers Hugh Mackay and Ian Hickie, alongside French writers Didier Eribon and Simone de Beauvoir. Together, participants will examine how traditional ideas of retirement and old age are being redefined, considering purpose, identity, wellbeing and lifelong contribution. Through discussion and shared reflection, you'll explore practical and inspiring perspectives on one of life's most significant transitions.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE RESOURCE

• Hugh Mackay 2024 The Way We Are
• Ian Hickie - the Unlearn Project Sydney University - podcast December 2022
• https://www.sydney.edu.au/engage/events-sponsorships/sydney-ideas/2025/slow-ageing.html
• Australian Institute of Family Studies, Factors and effects of social isolation for older people, February 2024 - www.afis.gov.au
• Human Rights Commission, Older Workers not wanted, 30 June 2026
• https://humanrights.gov.au/our-work/publications/ Age, assumptions and access at work
• NSW Council on Ageing Report 2026
• Simone de Beauvoir, (1970) Coming of Age

COURSE OUTLINE

• An interactive symposium and group discussion covering ideas and the need for social change to outdared views on 'old age'
• Recent social research, findings and ideas that four Big researcher have to say about the Quiet New Revolution – the fundamental reshaping of a demeaning and now outdated social status ‘Old Age
• Four Changemakers' ideas are reviewed, discussed and debated in a warm Mature Age atmosphere of civil curiosity and inquiry - two Australian and two French social researchers-writers-philosophers.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

• Continue 'Unlearning Retirement' and feel elderhood as as a valued place in Australian society
• Feel a boost in confidence and assurance  in exploring and expanding  what it is to be and do in our over-60 years.