CHANGING THE CONVERSATION ON AGEING

Join us for an evening of thought-provoking conversation and meaningful connection as we dive into a topic that touches every one of us, no matter our age or stage of life.

Too often, ageing is seen as something to fear or fix—a slow decline into dependence or irrelevance. But is this right—or inevitable?

As New Zealand’s population grows older, a quiet crisis is emerging: older people are increasingly treated as a problem to manage rather than a generation to honour. Policy, media, and even healthcare can subtly frame them as burdens—on families, on systems, on society.

For many women, this narrative runs deep. “I don’t want to be a burden” is something we hear—and even say—far too often. Despite the countless ways we care for people throughout life, the fear of being a burden tends to creep up on us women in a particular way. Does a life of generosity prepare or dissuade someone from receiving the care of others? How can the experiences of ageing, dependency, and even frailty help bring about a revolution of tenderness within our communities?

Together, let’s explore:

Why an ageing population is a blessing—not a burden
What policy and community can do to support ageing with dignity
What the End-of-Life Choice Act reveals about how we value the elderly—and how to respond

Amanda Achtman is a Canadian writer, advocate, and founder of Dying to Meet You. She works across Canada and internationally to prevent euthanasia, promote intergenerational solidarity, and spark hope. Amanda recently served as a senior adviser to a Member of Parliament working to stop the expansion of Canada’s assisted-dying programme.

Maryanne Spurdle, Research Manager at Maxim Institute, has a background in communications for media and non-profits and a Master of Public Policy. Maryanne’s early work with vulnerable and homeless adults in the north of England fuelled her passion for discovering and communicating ways that families, communities, and governments can encourage human flourishing in a complex world.

Whether you’re 25 or 75, this conversation matters. Women are caregivers, leaders, and culture-makers. Let’s shape the future of ageing—together.

Bring your questions, your stories, and your curiosity. We’ll have time for Q&A, conversation, and connection.

This is a free event for women. The evening kicks off with drinks and nibbles from 6:30pm, with the main event starting promptly at 7:00pm. We’ll also have time to connect and continue the conversation afterwards—so feel free to linger!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Ngā mihi,
Lou Bridges

Relationship and Network Specialist

Verity - Women Shaping the Future

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