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The Ageing Ideal

This podcast series is for anyone who wants to know more about how we can live and age well and shape the future of aged care in Australia.

The Ageing Ideal podcast logo.

A podcast for all ages

The Ageing Ideal podcast series explores the perspectives and experiences of older people, their families, carers and those who live and work alongside them.

Through thought-provoking and insightful conversations, we dispel a few myths, challenge preconceptions, and offer a more positive outlook on ageing, aged care and the services and approaches that can bring joy and make life easier.

You’ll hear from:

  • Older people
  • Carers
  • Families
  • Experts in gerontology, psychology and aged care.

Season Two: Out now

We’re all ageing; it’s one of life’s greatest privileges.

The Ageing Ideal is not just another podcast about ageing. Each episode brings together people from all walks of life, their experience and asks questions to ignite a new conversation about getting older and how we can break down barriers.

We’re delighted to bring you Season Two, where the conversation gets even more interesting. We challenge the perception that older people need to be wrapped in cotton wool. We discuss love at any age, grand parenting, the concept of joy and ask the question, what would we say to our younger self in the episode Dear younger me.

Meet the host

Jacinta Parsons is a broadcaster, radio maker, writer, and public speaker from Melbourne Australia.

Jacinta has published the groundbreaking and powerful book “A Question of Age” about women, ageing and the forever self in 2022.

She currently co-hosts the Friday Revue with Brian Nankervis on ABC Radio Melbourne. Her knowledge and compelling voice will lead you to a fresh understanding of the reality, and often unspoken impacts, of ageing.

Portrait of The Ageing Ideal podcast host Jacinta Parsons.

Listen to The Ageing Ideal

14 Jun 2026

The older man’s mirror

What happens when work, strength or status no longer define who you are as a man? Listen to Episode 13 of The Ageing Ideal, The older man’s mirror.

Podcast

Health and Wellness

22 May 2026

Meaning in life

What gives life meaning as we age? This episode explores purpose, connection, spirituality and self-reflection through heartfelt conversations with experts.

Podcast

Organisational

12 May 2026

End of life matters

Living well into our final chapter is often contemplated but rarely discussed.

Podcast

Health and Wellness

13 Feb 2026

Love at any age

In this episode, we're stepping into the world of later life romance, companionship, desire and connection.

Podcast

Health and Wellness

14 Jan 2026

Grand expectations

Being a grandparent today isn’t about fitting into an old mould but finding your own rhythm.

Podcast

Community Home Support Programs

22 Dec 2025

Table for one

Jacinta Parsons speaks with Dr. Anita Goh and columnist for the Sunday Life Magazine Kerri Sackville about the difference between loneliness and solitude and how to embrace it.

Podcast

Health and Wellness

03 Dec 2025

Don’t wrap me in cotton wool

As we age, risk-taking becomes a conscious consideration. While caution often increases and those around us may encourage it, older adults still have the right to take risks.

Podcast

Health and Wellness

20 Aug 2025

Strong at any age

You can be strong at any age. While it takes effort and commitment, are there limits to the physical activity and exercise we can do to keep our mind and body strong?

Podcast

Health and Wellness

23 Jul 2025

The ageing paradox

Once considered to diminish as people age, research is showing the contrary - that ageing can deliver an uptick in overall quality of life. It is referred to as The Ageing Paradox.

Podcast

Health and Wellness