Food

Features

Generational Divide: Baby Boomers reflect on a childhood worlds apart from today’s norms

Quirky things our parents used to say

Queen Elizabeth worked with many people over her seven-decade reign but there was one collaborator who held a special place in her heart.

The heartwarming relationship between the late Queen Elizabeth and Paddington Bear

Financial abuse is being pushed by factors such as longer life spans and "inheritance impatience." Source: Getty Images.

The Australian Human Rights Commission is spearheading the fight against the financial abuse of older Australians by establishing the Financial Elder Abuse Action Collaborative, to better identify and prevent elder abuse in the community.

New project takes action against financial elder abuse

The Oscar-winning actress has shared her grief, gratitude, and the legacy of love her mother left behind. Source: Getty Images.

Nicole Kidman opens up about the heartbreaking loss of her mother, Janelle, revealing the final words of wisdom she received and how her family is coping.

Nicole Kidman reveals heartbreaking final conversation with her late mother

A balanced breakfast could do more than just fuel your day — it may help manage your weight, improve heart health, and keep your metabolism in check

Why a balanced breakfast could transform your health

We've all heard the warnings about high-inflammatory foods such as refined carbohydrates, fizzy drinks and processed meats. Now scientists are warning that a diet high in these foods could substantially increase your risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Why a pro-inflammatory diet could increase your risk of dementia

As Charles returns to public life and his royal duties, a palace source has revealed that his treatment would continue in 2025. Source: AP PHOTO.

Although King Charles' cancer treatment is reported to be "moving in a positive direction", the Monarch will continue therapy into the new year to manage his condition.

King Charles’ cancer battle to continue into the new year

"Rowan and I have a plan for something we might do which would just be a bit of fun sometime in the next few years." Source: Getty Images.

Could the beloved comedy Blackadder return? Richard Curtis has a plan that might just make it happen.

Could Blackadder return? Richard Curtis hints at a new chapter for the beloved comedy

"She knew me all my life and she loved me." Source: Getty Images.

Sarah Ferguson shares heartfelt memories of Queen Elizabeth II, from her final words of wisdom to the special bond they shared.

Sarah Ferguson shares the Queen’s heartfelt final words to her

Joke of the day

Daily Joke: Conversations on a plane

However, the person sitting next to me was a young girl, about four or five years old. Show me the full joke

TV Host Larry Emdur shocks fans with strange kitchen practice

Kiara Camuglia

The Commonwealth has secured the rights to the Aboriginal Flag in a $20 million deal. Source: Getty Images.

The Commonwealth has secured the rights to the Aboriginal Flag in a $20 million deal with the flags original artist, Luritja man Harold Thomas.

Aboriginal flag freed from copyrights, private ownership wiped in historic $20m deal

Tips

How to make sure the quintessential Christmas ham doesn’t go to waste

After a lavish Christmas feast, what will do you with the leftovers? Discover 5 ways to ensure your classic Christmas ham doesn't go to waste:

The trick is to choose the right rose for the look you have in mind. Source: Getty Images.

Choosing the right roses for your garden can make or break a beautiful backyard. Here are the roses you can choose from and how each one fits into a larger green system.

How to pick the best rose for your garden

Nothing says 'Aussie Christmas' quite like fresh prawns, but what’s the best way to deal with the leftover heads and shells? Source: Getty Images.

Tips

Bid farewell to stinky bins! Clever tips for discarding prawn shells after Christmas Day

Discover five ingenious ways to make the most of your prawn scraps this Christmas and keep your bins fresh and odour-free.

Fresh ginger is a great way to add a little bit of unique flavour to your dishes.

How to grow your own ginger at home for cooking

Do you know where Boxing Day and its traditions come from? Source: Getty Images.

Boxing Day is a wonderful day of relaxation and recovery, but few know the truth of its intriguing origins.

Why do we refer to the day after Christmas as Boxing Day and where do its traditions come from?

Food

The charmingly quirky ways people enjoy Christmas fruitcake

The Christmas spirit is in full swing, and what better way to kick off the festive season than with a lively debate on the best way to enjoy the iconic fruitcake?

Discover how to embrace the special joy of celebrating Christmas solo this year. Source: Getty Images.

Lifestyle

Spending Christmas solo? Here’s how to make your day merry and bright

There are a number of reasons for opting out of larger Christmas gatherings, and this time of year presents wonderful opportunities to revel in your independence, turning it into not just a celebration but a truly memorable day.

Do you find yourself nostalgic for old Christmas traditions? What were some of your favourites? Source: Getty Images.

Take a heartwarming trip down memory lane with us as we revisit these nostalgic treasures, reigniting the joy that once defined our holiday celebrations.

Treasured Christmas memories: Revisiting the heartwarming traditions of the past

From Grandma's accidentally rude gifts to a homemade disaster of epic proportions. Dive into a collection of the funniest fails so far. Source: Getty Images.

Lifestyle

From awkward to outrageous: The funniest Christmas gift blunders

From Grandma's accidentally rude gifts to a homemade disaster of epic proportions. Dive into a collection of the funniest Christmas present fails so far.

This spud-tacular hack comes directly from a culinary whiz, so you know it'll be good! Source: Elena Photos.

Food

A chef’s trick to the ultimate roast potatoes this Christmas

Roast potatoes are a staple at any Christmas dinner, but the truly perfect platter can be tricky to achieve... unless you know this trick.

Source: esp_imaging from Getty Images Signature

Look back at cherished festive meals from the 1950s and '60s.

Unforgettable Christmas foods from your childhood

One of the best parts about the festive season is the food and drink, but that doesn't mean you have to let your health take a hit. Source: Africa images.

Diet and nutrition

Feasts, chocolates and gifts: How to stay healthy over the Christmas celebrations

This Christmas, let health and happiness go hand in hand as you celebrate with loved ones, enjoying the best of both worlds.

Beat the heat with these top tips to keep your furry friends healthy in the summer. Source: titiya from Getty Images Pro.

Cats

How to keep your pets safe and comfy this summer

Ensure your pets thrive this summer and get them ready for the sizzling days ahead with these handy tips.

Stories from The Lab

Helpful articles on style, health, lifestyle and home, packed with solutions just for over-60s.

Health Solutions

Good vibrations: Have yourself a buzzy little Christmas

Make it all about you this Christmas as we guide you through the best new vibrator picks for your body and needs.

Written byStarts at 60 Writers

Style

How to dress for your body shape

Our Starts at 60 fashion guru and stylist Jodie Piper knows a thing or two about dressing for your shape, and is here to trouble-shoot some of the most common wardrobe worries.

Written byStarts at 60 Writers

The Lab

The Starts at 60 Best of the Year 2021

The 'Starts at 60 Best of the Year'. A detailed list of the most popular 15 products in the Starts at 60 Marketplace and the top 3 products in Travel at 60.

Written byRebecca Wilson

See more shoppable stories

‘Switched on gardener’ reveals the ‘clever’ way to keep your plants thriving while you’re on holidays

Matthew Hart

Latest Opinions

‘Saying goodbye to old habits and the simpler things in life’

‘What’s in a name? The weird and unusual names I’ve come across’

‘A simple visit to my GP landed me in hospital for major surgery hours later’

‘Two Old Ducks: What happened after my friend received her first Covid-19 vaccination’

‘As a single pensioner in Australia, I feel like I’m always begging for scraps’

From festive bells to the struggle with legible handwriting, this holiday season brings a mix of tradition and technology. As we get older, it's the little things—like printing cards instead of writing them by hand—that make the Yuletide spirit a bit easier to enjoy.

Christmas bells

Tips

Blitz your bathroom before Christmas: Six natural ways to keep things squeaky clean

Prep your house for the added weight of the festive season with these cleaning tips to keep the porcelain throne shiny and sparkling.

From memory lapses to trivia triumphs, here’s how we can keep our minds active, our hearts connected, and our spirits resilient as the years roll on.

Staying sharp in my 70s

Good health

Research shows that crosswords can help keep your mind sharp for years

If you’re the kind of person who enjoys completing the crossword in the morning newspaper or challenging yourself with tricky number puzzles, you may be doing more than entertaining yourself.

Tell me about where you’ve lived.

Crappy places I have lived

We’ve found an old remedy that will right those droopy stems in no time at all.

How to restore life to wilting flowers

Paul McCartney takes crowds on a nostalgic journey through his legendary career, reuniting with a virtual John Lennon for an unforgettable encore. Source: AP PHOTO.

Beatles legend Paul McCartney has delighted fans in Manchester with a nostalgic journey through his remarkable career, even reuniting with a virtual former bandmate for a special encore performance.

Paul McCartney reunites with virtual Beatles bandmate for an unforgettable homecoming concert

The ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to stimulate the brain, which helps improve communication between brain cells and clear harmful proteins associated with Alzheimer's. Source: Getty Images.

A game-changing new therapy that may potentially restore brain function in people with Alzheimer's could be soon trialed on patients after a medical technology start-up company secured a license to develop the technology.

How a promising new Alzheimer’s treatment could revolutionise how we treat the disease

Dion married her long-time manager René Angélil in 1994, and the couple were still together at the time of his death. Source: Getty Images.

Despite his passing, their love will go on. Celine Dion has posted a heartfelt tribute to her late husband on social media on what would have been their 30th wedding anniversary.

Superstar Celine Dion delivers touching tribute to late husband on their wedding anniversary

This holiday season, whether you’re in the mood for family-friendly magic, heart-wrenching drama, or laugh-out-loud comedy, there’s something for everyone.

The Screen Critic: Kids and adults are well catered for in a bumper crop of fine film fare to get you through the Christmas season

Royal fans were quick to send their Christmas wishes to the Wales clan, with many praising the "lovely picture" chosen by William and Catherine. Source: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images.

Following a year filled with challenges for the Royal Family, Prince William and Princess Catherine are embracing the festive spirit and looking ahead to better days with the release of their annual Christmas card.

Prince William and Princess Catherine delight royal fans with ‘beautiful’ Christmas card

Tomatoes aren't always easy to get right, but these tips could help you achieve better results.

8 additions to your tomatoes that will help them grow and taste better

Divorce

Staying healthy after grey divorce

Divorce is challenging at any age, but a "grey divorce" later in life has unique emotional and practical hurdles. Though it can be overwhelming, it's also a chance to prioritise your well-being and embrace a new, fulfilling chapter.

Dench has always had a positive approach to the ageing process. Source: Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images.

Renowned actress Dame Judi Dench recently celebrated her 90th birthday, and while some may dread the passage of time, Dench takes an admirable approach to ageing, revealing that she has "got a great deal to be grateful for."

Dame Judi Dench reflects on turning 90, revealing she’s ‘got a great deal to be grateful for’

The Retirement Guide

Our new retirement guide puts the needs and wants of modern, digital savvy over-60s on the table and helps you navigate the problem, solutions and things you need to know as you approach and go on your retirement journey.

Considering a Retirement Village

All the important information you need when considering moving to a Retirement Village.

Creating a Retirement Plan

Getting ready to retire? We’ve put together some helpful information to help guide your retirement planning.

Preparing your Estate Plan

A helpful resource centre to guide your Estate Planning process =nsuring that your assets will be distributed to the right people.

Visit the Starts at 60 Retirement Guide

‘Literary giant’ and celebrated Aussie author John Marsden dies, age 74

Matthew Hart

From our community

‘The day I almost lost my husband and how his accident has changed our lives’

‘Who will take care of you when you’re old? It would be great if it was a loved one’

‘Protests and civil unrest aren’t revolutionary, they’re blocking our path to success’

‘Have you got what it takes to become a senior citizen?’

‘Anti-vaxxers fail the KFC herbs and spices test’

Source: LauriPatterson from Getty Images Signature

Missing your morning meal could do more than leave you hungry.

Skipping breakfast may raise your risk of heart disease

The Royal Family's Christmas celebrations at Sandringham are set to go ahead without Prince Andrew as he faces fresh controversy. Source: AP PHOTO.

Much like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the disgraced Prince Andrew will miss out on Christmas with the Royal Family this year following yet another public scandal

Prince Andrew to miss out on Christmas with the Royal Family following latest scandal

Exercise

Top 5 weight-bearing exercises perfect for over-60s to stay strong and healthy

Discover 5 simple weight-bearing exercises perfect for over-60s that can be done at home or in the gym. From boosting bone strength to improving muscle tone, these moves are a game-changer for ageing gracefully.

Fans were quick to praise Lauren for sharing her journey, with many expressing admiration for her strength and resilience. Source: Sam Tabone/WireImage/GettyImages.

Lauren Zonfrillo, the widow of beloved MasterChef star Jock Zonfrillo, is sharing her deeply personal journey of grief and resilience in a newly announced memoir.

‘It’s been really hard for me’: Jock Zonfrillo’s widow opens up about her grief in upcoming memoir

Aged care

How do I know I’m choosing the right aged care home?

There’s an easy way to compare the quality of care, safety and services of residential aged care homes.

These plants are great at warding off crawlies and pesky insects, including mosquitoes.

9 plants that will deter pesky bugs in your garden

Why you might want to think twice before reaching for paracetamol the next time pain strikes. Source: Getty Images.

Paracetamol may be a go-to remedy for nagging pain, but for older adults, it could be doing more harm than good.

Could paracetamol be doing more harm than good?

"I won't let him down. He supports me as much as I support him. He's supported me through thick and thin." Source: AP PHOTO.

Despite Prince Andrew's public scandals and loss of royal titles, Sarah Ferguson remains his unwavering ally. In a heartfelt declaration, the Duchess of York shares her steadfast support, calling Andrew "a great man with a great heart".

‘I won’t let him down’: Sarah Ferguson vows to stand by ‘great man’ Prince Andrew

Royal fans have been treated to a rare glimpse of Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet after their parents, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, released their annual Christmas card.

Royal fans catch rare glimpse of Archie and Lilibet in Harry and Meghan’s ‘lovely’ Christmas card

Source: ac_bnphotos from Getty Images Signature

Healthy sleeping

Excessive sleep may impair memory and slow reaction times

Learn the optimal sleep duration for maintaining cognitive function.

As news of Jacobson's passing spread, fans offered heartfelt tributes and condolences, honouring her life and memorable performances. Source: Jonathan Leibson/FilmMagic/GettyImages.

Actress Jill Jacobson, known for her memorable roles in iconic shows such as Star Trek and Days of Our Lives, has sadly passed away at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances.

Star Trek and Falcon Crest star Jill Jacobson dies, age 70

Paying attention to changes in our feet can provide valuable insights into overall health and help identify potential issues early on. Source: Getty Images.

Foot health

How your feet change with age and what they could reveal about your health

Our bodies experience many physical changes as we age, and our feet are no exception. Recognising how ageing affects foot health can provide important insights into our overall well-being.

Fans flooded social media with heartfelt birthday wishes, honouring the entertainer who continues to inspire with his boundless energy and positivity. Source: AP PHOTO.

Entertainment legend Dick Van Dyke is proving that age is just a number as he celebrates his 99th birthday, reflecting on the milestone with his trademark humour and resilience.

Entertainment icon Dick Van Dyke celebrates 99th birthday after narrow escape from wildfire

Eating too many ultra processed foods is not just bad for our waistlines but could speed up the biological ageing process, according to new research.Source: Getty Images.

Diet and nutrition

How ultra-processed foods could be ageing you faster

Eating too many ultra processed foods is not just bad for our waistlines but could speed up the biological ageing process, according to new research.

Recipe of the day

Moreish orange and cardamom oat biscuits

The blend of orange, lemon and cardamom flavours is delicious, while the honey and raisins give a delightful sweetness. Show me the recipe

Expert contributors

Health ExpertDr Ross WalkerThe Healthy Living Guru

Money ExpertNoel WhittakerThe Financial Wizard of Oz

Money ExpertTom EllisonThe Naked Investor

Gardening ExpertRoger Fox

Estate planning expertMarie Brownell

Money ExpertBrian HerdThe Elder Law Legal Eagle

Written byJane Kilkenny

Starts at 60 is helping you live out a modern retirement with the latest news, useful information, advice and real-life stories across Money, Health, Travel, Property & Downsizing and Entertainment.

News & Experts

Downsizing, Property & Home

Visit our Property and Home section to see your options for selling your home, considering a new home and decorating up a storm.

Health & Wellbeing

Our Health Section brings you up-to-date insights into better health as you approach and live in retirement and guides you on common age-related health issues.

Money

From the pension to your retirement income and investments, our Money section offers expert insights and Q&As to help along the way.

Entertainment

Get all the latest news and views on movies, TV, books, theatre, home-technology and other entertainment options.

Travel

News, views and inspiration for travelling in Australia and internationally as options become available.

Opinion

Our Opinion section features powerful, expert editorials, great nostalgia and blogs from hundreds of over-60 writers.

The latest Money & Health News

Understanding how people aged 67 to 75 can top up their self-managed super funds

Nick Bruining

Money Questions

Inspiring Travel

Travel

Take the paddlewheeler down the ‘Mighty Murray’

Touring

The quintessential Queensland holiday which has been hatched by nature

Travel

12 of the coolest things you can do on New Zealand’s North Island

Touring

4 trips which showcase the best of the USA

Money Questions

“Can I gift a home to my kids and would it affect them in any financial way?”

Independent finance expert, Nick Bruining, answers this Q&A and shares what other implications you need to consider before gifting a home to your children.

Independent money expert, Nick Bruining, provides a real life example of how Centrelink assessable income is NOT the same as Tax Office assessable income. Image source: Getty

Age Pension

Understanding how Centrelink assesses income for the income test

It's important to understand that Centrelink assessable income is not the same as Tax Office assessable income or actual cash received.

A difference of 1 per cent in fees could make a difference of 20 per cent in your final retirement payout. Image source: Getty

Retirement Income

‘What’s a reasonable amount to pay in super fees and charges?’

"If you’re paying 2.0 per cent or more, then you’re probably indirectly paying for someone’s leased BMW and pony club membership."

Do you have a question for our money expert?

Investment

Help! Why has my managed fund distributions resulted in a tax liability and what can I do about it?

Money expert Nick Bruining explains why the distributions from a managed fund could result in a tax liability.

Quick and easy strengthening exercises you can do at home. Source: Getty

Medifit expert Van Marinos offers tips to help incorporate strength training into your exercise regimen, all of which you can do in the comforts of home!

At-home strength workouts to help prevent osteoporosis

Relationship expert Polly offers guidance and empowering exercises to help survivors of unwanted physical attention reclaim their bodies, heal, and rediscover the pleasure of sexual touch.

Help! How do I heal and allow myself to open up sexually again after a troubling past?

Discover the secrets to reviving pleasure in your relationship after menopause with advice from our relationship expert Polly.

Help! My wife (67) can’t orgasm since having a full hysterectomy

Engaging in physical activity also provides a healthy distraction from negative thoughts and ruminations that often accompany depression and anxiety. Source: Getty

Exercise is a powerful ally in promoting men's mental health, providing a holistic approach to address concerns such as depression, anxiety, and overall wellbeing.

5 reasons why exercise can help encourage men to work on their mental health

It's important to note that these hormonal changes can affect each person differently. Source: Getty

This expert understands that menopause can be a complex journey due to hormonal changes, but with the right strategies it's possible to navigate this new chapter of life successfully.

How to keep your cool during menopause

Relationship expert Polly suggests that individuals facing difficulties maintaining an erection should have a candid discussion with their doctor to explore alternative options in order to foster a satisfying and safe sexual relationship.

Help! How can I overcome mental barriers and enhance my sexual experience with my new partner?

It's time to break the sigma around adult incontinence. Source: Getty

Health issues

It’s time to stop shying away from the topic of adult incontinence

It might not be a glamorous talking point, but starting a conversation about adult continence issues is the only way to kick the stigma to the curb.

Relationship expert Polly says that while managing ED following a prostate removal may seem challenging, orgasms and enjoyment of sex can still be experienced in different ways.

Help! I’ve had my prostate removed and am unable to have an erection

Prostate cancer is the most common diagnosis amongst Australian males.Source: Getty

Surviving cancer opens a new chapter in life but the emotional and physical hurdles highlight the importance of support and resources for adapting to the "new normal" after treatment.

The physical and emotional toll of life after cancer