Page 10 - Just Better Care Possible Magazine - Issue 1

people in her village over a pot of tea, Peggy’s out lunching, getting involved in community groups and attending appointments.
Keeping herself busy and getting involved in different activities is the key to living a good life, she says.
“I’ve got lovely friends who come and take me out for lunch a lot,” Peggy said.
“They took me to the golf club the other day which was very enjoyable. We watched a few players swing and miss the ball, which I have to say, was entertaining,” she laughed.
“I used to play golf as a young woman. These days though, I prefer to watch – it’s better to sit back and watch with your feet up!”
When asked what her secret
for living for over a century was, Peggy credited her faith, family, friends and support network.
“I’m lucky to have good family, good friends and good care,” she said.
“I really feel blessed. The village I live in provides cleaners to help at home and the support staff from Just Better Care comes to help with lunch and dinner six days a week.
“On a Sunday I do it myself, sometimes with the help of my family, or my family might take me out to dinner which is always nice. I’ve got
a wonderful family who visit a lot.”
Peggy got married at the age
of 25 in an Anglican church in Kiama, on the New South Wales South Coast. On the day of their wedding, her husband was called up for active
army service. He was given seven days to pack up his life and leave for training camp.
“It was a difficult time, but that was just the way it was then,” Peggy said.
“Because everyone was in the same boat, you couldn’t feel sorry for yourself.”
Peggy lost her husband many years ago after he battled an illness contracted during active service. When he was away, Peggy would join the other wives to bake cakes.
“I’d make a cake every week to send to my husband. It would never reach him, but I’m sure it went to someone else’s husband.”
Peggy has since hung up her apron, but shares her baking wisdom with the younger members of the Manly Country Women’s Association branch once a month.
“A friend of mine is the president and she picks me up to go to the meeting at the Manly branch. The younger girls are probably better at cooking,” she laughed.
Peggy’s motto for life at 100 years young is the same she has followed all her life; one of positivity and possibility.
“It’s a good life. Go out, get involved and go with the flow. And love your family and friends, everyday.”
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Just Better Care Australia