Not Done Yet: Why Age is Not the End, But a New Beginning

By Beverley Strickland
As I’ve grown older, I’ve discovered something remarkable: while the body may ache, the mind stays sharp. In fact, many of us become more insightful, more creative and more capable of meaningful contribution as the years go by. And yet, society still seems too quick to write off the elderly as if age equals irrelevance.
 
Let’s be clear: age is just a number, not a full stop.
 
We live in a culture obsessed with the “next big thing,” but in doing so, we’re sidelining a massive source of wisdom, experience and perspective. Consider this: research from the World Health Organization shows that ageism is widespread and has serious consequences with over 1 in 2 people worldwide holding ageist attitudes. Meanwhile, studies reveal that companies with age-diverse teams perform better and older adults often report higher levels of emotional well-being and problem-solving skills than their younger counterparts.
 
So why are we still pushing people out the door at 60, when life expectancy continues to rise and people are living and thriving longer than ever?
 
We’re seeing the rise of the “unretirement” trend, where many over 65 are choosing to keep working, not because they have to, but because they want to. The Australian Bureau of Statistics confirms that workforce participation among older Australians continues to climb. At the same time, a wave of older adults is stepping into the creator economy from “grandfluencers” on Instagram to podcasters and self-published authors sharing deep, hard-won insights with the world.
Need proof that purpose doesn’t retire? Colonel Sanders launched KFC at 65. Laura Ingalls Wilder published her first book at 65. David Attenborough is still narrating documentaries at 98. These aren’t feel-good exceptions, they’re wake-up calls that legacy doesn’t have a deadline.
 
One man who lives this out today is Peter E. Barfoot, a living example that your calling doesn’t fade with age. Strictlymarketing had the privilege of helping Peter build a simple website where he could upload 100’s articles he has researched and written, a lifetime of ministry work, spiritual insights and teaching now freely available online https://peterbarfootministry.com At a time when many would be winding down, Peter is ramping up sharing his wisdom with anyone hungry to learn.
 
His journey spans media, ministry, leadership, international travel, authorship and even a foray into painting more than 300 artworks. And yes, he’s still married after 62 years and deeply involved in family and church life. But here’s the real point: he’s still contributing, still passionate, still full of purpose.
 
Peter is not an exception, he’s a blueprint. He reminds us that you are not done until you’re done.
 
Our challenge as a society is this:
👉 Stop underestimating the value of age.
👉 Stop assuming contribution ends at retirement.
👉 Start championing, platforming and partnering with those who still have so much to give.
Whether it’s through a website, a podcast, mentoring, or ministry, older adults have gold to offer. Let’s stop treating age as a liability and start recognising it for what it truly is: a superpower wrapped in experience.
So don’t discard the Peters in your life, amplify them. Learn from them. Build with them. Because, if we’re lucky, one day we’ll be them!
 
Ready to Build Your Legacy? Let’s Make It Happen.
 
Just like Peter Barfoot, your wisdom, your work and your voice deserve to be seen and heard clearly, beautifully and professionally. Whether you’re 65 or 95, it’s never too late to launch a website, start a podcast, publish your insights or share your creativity with the world.
 
At Strictlymarketing, we specialise in design and web services that bring your vision to life simply, accessibly and with purpose. You’ve got the story, the experience, the passion, let us help you shape the platform. Because you’re not done yet. Let’s build something that lasts.
 
To find out more about our creative design and web development services contact our Head of Design, Ryan Hayes at Strictlymarketing rhayes@strictlymarketing.com.au