Dorothy Hoddinott AO
In this episode of 'Let's Talk Ageing', we hear from human rights and refugee advocate and educator Dorothy Hoddinott AO.
Interview summary
Date: 21 January 2025
Dorothy sees many sides to ageing, including being able to put to use a lifetime's accumulation of knowledge and experience, but without the “luxury of a lifetime ahead of you”.
Read the interview
What does getting older mean to you, and why?
Getting older comes as rather a surprise. You are still yourself, but without the luxury of a lifetime ahead of you.
The future is no longer a long‑term project. However, there is more time for yourself, for developing your interests, and for putting to use a lifetime’s accumulation of knowledge and experience.
There is also the benefit of not having to go to work anymore. I do not see myself radically changing my life, but I do need to be realistic about its finiteness.
It will come to an end. I will die. I may need to be dependent on others for the last years of my life.
Until then, I plan on living life to the full.
What do you see are the key challenges people face as they get older?
Aside from physical and possible cognitive decline, I think the key challenges include loss of agency and a loss of purpose in life.
This can be particularly acute immediately after retirement, when people may struggle with changes to self‑image, authority, and how to use their time effectively.
Downsizing or moving into a new community can also be difficult and problematic.
Our society tends to be dismissive of older people, even though most of us will grow old. Poverty and homelessness, particularly among older women who may not have adequate superannuation, are significant issues that need government remedy.
Tell us about your work and what you have been doing to address these challenges.
Since my retirement, I have continued to work in refugee and human rights advocacy, as well as supporting the arts.
I am a pro‑chancellor at the University of Sydney, which mainly involves presiding at graduation ceremonies, and I am also on the council of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
I appreciate that this is not for everyone, but active involvement in the community is a good way to retain a sense of purpose, engagement, and an ongoing voice in wider society.
How can others get involved or support this work?
Becoming actively involved in volunteering is not difficult. I suggest following your interests and using the expertise and skills you have gained throughout your life.
This might include helping at a local primary school, volunteering at a museum or gallery, joining organisations such as the CWA or the Asylum Seeker Centre, getting involved in a local church, joining a choir, or participating in a men’s shed.
There are many possibilities that can take you out of the house and help you connect with others.