Peter’s story: looking back on a life well-lived

Looking back on his life, Peter Sirianni understands why our sense of wellbeing improves as we age.

“By the time you’re 65, hopefully your house is paid off, you’ll have some money in the bank and a bit of security for old age,” the 84-year-old former tailor reflects.

“Retirement for me was alright. I was happy because, every day, I used to do some sewing, do some stitching. I didn’t have to get up early in the morning.”

Born in the southern Italian region of Calabria, Peter reflects on some of his happiest times, including making his first single-breasted three-piece suit as a young apprentice, and moving from Italy with his parents to live in Australia.

“The people I left behind, one by one, they all came over here and we got to be all together. It was a happy time.”

Today, Peter lives in residential aged care at Australian Unity’s Rathdowne Place, and admits that his health isn’t perfect.

“I take a lot of tablets and I have to use a cane for walking,” he says.

But he refuses to let these physical ailments sour his outlook.

“I think the main thing to be happy is to appreciate what you’ve got,” says Peter.

“I watch other people and some of them are much worse off than me. That reminds me to be satisfied with what I still have.”