We asked, you answered.

How would you describe yourself?

Already 72 years old, the first seven years of retirement have gone by too quickly, always enjoyed my previous work as a teacher and a project manager, currently doing voluntary work and a mini-job, actually too much, but it’s fun

Imagine you are 72, 80 or even 99 years old: How and with whom do you live together?

I would like to continue living with my husband. If I am to be alone, I would rather be in a nice retirement home than live with my child and grandchildren.

Two or three generations under one roof bring conflicts.

Who are the most important people in your life and how do you spend time with them?

With the family in everyday life and during holidays with a regular daily structure.

What is your sex and love life like in the future?

As is has been so far, calm yet stimulating.

How do you manage to stay mentally and physically fit?

With sports: gym, hiking, cycling.

I like to follow current affairs, am curious about new perspectives and assessments of politics and history, although I often do not share them. I still have a fairly good command of the digital world, however I don’t want to get involved in everything.

How do you afford everyday life in the future?

The pension is not lavish, but it is sufficient. The flat I live at is my own, but the life costs are rising.

In the future, what do you get up for in the morning?

…To spend a nice day that includes everything: having breakfast, reading the newspaper, writing a story on my PC, doing research, cleaning the bathroom and kitchen, spending one or two hours in the gym, zooming with two friends, explaining homework via the school-cloud to my granddaughter, sewing a t-shirt, starting a book, watching an exciting film, preparing to visit an exhibition, going through old photos, sending an invitation for the helpers’ circle meeting … uff, unfortunately the day was too short again.

If you had to tell a young friend about all the things you’ve done right while ageing and would thus recommend to them… What would they be?

…About ten years before retirement I decided to be, first and foremost, at peace with myself. I feel balanced. There are numerous successes and achievements, there are also less successful things and some that I am ashamed of. In general, I am satisfied with myself. That makes it easier for me to open myself up to others.

– Original version: German –