In a culture fixated on youth and fearful of ageing, we see it as a privilege—a luxury for those fortunate enough to grow old. The Luxury of Ageing is a global content platform and collective of game-changers radically reimagining ageing, challenging outdated narratives, products, services and policies.

By 2030, one in six people worldwide will be aged 60 years or above, leading to a world where, for the first time in history, those aged 65+ will outnumber those under 15. This unprecedented longevity poses significant challenges and immense opportunities for governments, businesses and individuals. With this gift of longer health spans, our systems, infrastructure, products and services all need to be rapidly reconsidered.

Through our five pillars of exploration—Economy, Design, Technology, Health and Culture—we present new and inspiring narratives, ideas and initiatives , services and policies that are transforming ageing experiences. Together with leading thinkers, researchers, doers and everyday people who care, we ask questions and explore how we can better prepare for our future selves. After all, why couldn’t this be the most interesting and enriching time of our lives?

Welcome to The Luxury of Ageing - a platform powered by passion and curiosity. Stay tuned for our upcoming projects as we radically rethink ageing for our future selves.

Advocating for bold policies and innovative planning initiatives across workplace environments, housing, community centres, transportation, preventative healthcare, social engagement and beyond.

Inspiring and challenging businesses and governments at all levels to prioritise and rethink ageing starting today.

Promoting active and positive ageing, while combatting ageist stereotypes, social isolation and negative perceptions associated with age. Encouraging a shift in mindset from passive retirement to embracing purposeful and engaging second, third, and even fourth chapters of life.

Co-founder, The Luxury of Ageing

Alison brings more than 20 years of professional experience in brand, communications and project management in fashion, retail and publishing, including Averee, the world’s first single shopping destination whose mission was to revolutionise and elevate retail for people living with disability or the effects of ageing. Alison has long been extremely passionate about how we can all age better and is an ACCPA (Aged & Community Care Providers Association) recognised Aged Services Innovation Manager. After many years researching innovation in housing, design and our built environment to ensure older adults can continue to live well in the communities they know and love, and seeing how pervasive ageism is, the time has come for The Luxury of Ageing, a platform for conversations, challenging the status quo and promoting change for our future selves and this growing demographic.

Why do you want to change ageing?
It's the single thing that everyone will encounter if you're lucky enough, and let's face it, it's not exactly inspiring. We are growing older and feeling younger and better than ever before but our culture and societal views aren't keeping pace. There is so much opportunity to design a better outlook, and ultimately, stop discriminating against our future selves.

What makes you think TLOA could have an impact?
I'm excited to have a platform that presents new ideas, movements, innovation and questions around ageing, that will hopefully inspire change. Actual change, not just more talk. I feel a revolution is coming but at a glacial pace, and there are just too many exciting developments happening here and globally that more decision-makers need to know about, and act upon.

What is old for you?
In my experience, we talk about being 'old' as soon as we've passed teenage years and early adulthood - you hear ageing emerging as a theme starting with 30th birthdays approaching. And if we're not getting older, well you're in a lot of trouble. So yes, we're all old and that is wonderful. One of my favourite sayings is "nobody ever grows up, they just grow old". And it's so very true - everyone feels decades younger, and that's what's important. As cliched as that is.

If you were in government - what is the first action/policy you would take for older demographics?
I would start with incentivising and supporting age-friendly, intergenerational housing initiatives - fostering partnerships between government, developers and community organisations to create innovative developments that promote social integration and benefits residents of ALL ages.

Are you ageist?
This is challenging, but I'm becoming increasingly aware of my own biases and just how deeply entrenched ageism is in our culture - and it's just so absurd. Instead, I like to imagine a world where an individual's worth is defined not by a number, but by their unique contributions, talents and experiences. A society that celebrates wisdom at every age and how much human potential that could unlock.

Co-founder, The Luxury of Ageing

A social entrepreneur committed to leveraging creativity as a catalyst for positive change. With a background and degrees in graphic design and creative management, Mikella has an impressive track record of progressive projects to create change. Past accomplishments include advocating for education and empowerment of women around menopause, founding The Digital Age, an online platform and agency for baby boomers redefining the way we feel after 50. And most notably founder of Renaissance - a biannual fashion magazine and digital hub celebrating the beauty of age, proudly working exclusively with models over 40. This now leads Mikella to building a multifaceted platform, The Luxury of Ageing, centred around redefining the narrative around ageing and advocating for change and more positive outcomes and options for those of us privileged enough to grow old.

Why do you want to change ageing?
Ageing is a deeply personal journey influenced by health, finances, culture, and mindset. Generations experience ageing differently due to advancements in health and technology. Yet, societal attitudes often remain fixated on youth. I aim to challenge this mindset by reshaping perceptions of ageing, from the images we see to the limitations imposed by age-centric practices.

What makes you think TLOA could have an impact?
The people. We are approaching exceptionally intelligent, busy, and talented individuals to address questions and share their research. Their generosity with time and knowledge has deeply moved me, instilling a sense of profound gratitude. I believe change requires a movement, and the more people who become part of TLOA, the better our chances of making a difference.

What is old for you?
For me, it's a combination of physical changes and a narrowing of one's world. The most significant aspect that could make a difference is the mindset surrounding feeling old. It's about not letting numerical age dictate perceptions but remaining flexible, open, and embracing growth.

If you were in government - what is the first action/policy you would take for older demographics?
Wow, where do I start… I guess by appointing a minister dedicated solely to ageing. This minister would spearhead the creation of contemporary services and policies aimed at fostering active, supportive, and inclusive ageing experiences. These initiatives would encompass programs such as flexible retirement, urban planning for intergenerational cities, preventive healthcare, and personalised transportation solutions, among others. It's imperative that the driving force behind these efforts views ageing as an active, purposeful, and potentially joyful stage of life. Additionally, I'm puzzled by the marketing of senior weeks in various cities for individuals aged 55 and over.

Are you ageist?
In some respects, I believe I am. This marks my fourth project related to ageing, with my initial venture dating back nearly two decades. I'm endeavouring to comprehend my passion for this subject, which I suspect stems from a personal fear that as one ages, both self-imposed and societal barriers may gradually limit opportunities.