Our ageing population was not an issue in previous pandemics as people died younger. More people are at risk now. It creates tensions between generations and other communities; the need to ‘work’ for longer or contribute in ways that can be recognised as public benefit. As Macron said, it’s time to get off the beaten track and find new ways of living.

What is considered as old has come into the national consciousness as we see such variation between people of the same age. How we age is in our hands. Despite is inevitability it is malleable and is influenced by many factors, the importance of movement and value of our bodies over sedentary lifestyle being challenged as we see its ill effects. The uphill challenge and need for rehabilitation after a few weeks of being immobile reinforces this as we see those images on our screens ; The increase ; simplicity over consumerism, being outdoors and the value of nature and real noticing over indoorism and its focus on a ‘virtual’ world ; of simplicity over the complex; the and the spiritual awakening and questioning over secular values give us hope as society re-sets it modus operandi.

Perhaps we need to ask searching questions about our lifestyle and how it impacts our health and realise that everything is connected.

Regarding underlying health conditions such a cardiovascular, pulmonary or kidney disease along with obesity, diabetes, and dementia; could a kick-start into healthy ageing be part of the legacy for addressing inequalities and generational stereotypes? A 20-year-old needs to realise what is being stored up for a very old age. The 100-year life, with breaks and recreations means a new way of looking at careers and learning opportunities across the life-course.