There’s a raft of data suggesting that many women are having more sex after the menopause. Good. Excellent in fact. Long may this continue.

And yet, the same time, changes to the vagina and vulva may be setting in, leading to increased UTIs, leaking, splitting skin, night-time loo trips…and painful sex. To my intense irritation, women are unlikely to be told about this at any point in our lives. Or the straightforward, effective and cheap solutions available to fix this.

Vaginas aren’t embarrassing, they’re a fact of life, and now is the time to tend them as carefully as any other part of your body.

The deeply unappealing cluster of symptoms is known – rather horribly – as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), and they are basically down to a lack of oestrogen. It’s also something that’s historically been spoken about in hushed voices, laughed at, or totally ignored. Studies suggest that it affects around eighty per cent of women. In reality, from years of interviewing menopausal women, I’d say that number is more likely to be 100 per cent, and especially as we head into our fifties and beyond.

I do know what I’m talking about…

I shan’t go into too much personal detail, but I have some experience here. After treatment for breast cancer, and having to come off HRT aged 51, the main menopause symptom I noticed – within just a few weeks – was vaginal dryness, pain, and skin so dehydrated that it split and bled. It felt like the ultimate insult to be honest. What’s more, nobody had so much as mentioned it as a possibility. It’s only because I write about menopause that I joined the dots myself.

I am grumpy about my experience, because anything to do with cancer treatment makes me feel cross. But I am far more angry about the sheer number of women suffering in silence. This is why menopause education is so vital. If you are reading this with a sense of recognition, please make a GP or practice nurse appointment. Yes, it’s awkward speaking to a healthcare professional about your private parts; but they have honestly heard it all before.

Once you develop GSM it is not going to resolve on its own. Left untreated, it will worsen. As I say, too few of us are even aware that a) the vagina and vulva are affected by peri/menopause, and b) that the best solution is appropriate for almost everyone.

You will perhaps have seen many remedies advertised, and I’d recommend avoiding most of them. You do not need expensive salon treatments. There is research on-going into laser treatments but it’s mostly pretty inconclusive.

What you do need is vaginal oestrogen

This is available on prescription and is applied directly to the area. It comes in the form of a cream, pessary, or ring. Normally you use it once a day for two weeks, and then twice a week indefinitely. Even if you have had a hormonal cancer, it is almost always considered absolutely safe (these are official guidelines obviously, I’m not a medic). There are very few women who are not allowed to use it, as it’s not systemic, meaning that it doesn’t affect the whole body. And you can also use it alongside HRT. There is no breast cancer risk (if you are wondering).

Between doses, a decent vaginal moisturiser can help with extra hydration and comfort. Again, you can ignore expensive options (though there are some rather nice ones available). They can be prescribed or bought over the counter. You may wish to use a lubricant during sex to reduce friction, and here I’d recommend the YES Water-based personal lubricant or Sutil Luxe.

If you can’t bear the thought of discussing this, all the solutions are available over the counter or even online. Including vaginal oestrogen, although this isn’t a cheap route.

Alongside all this, do your pelvic floor exercises, and do them religiously. The pelvic floor is a muscle just like any other, and it needs working out.

What I find staggering is how profoundly GSM can affect our lives. I have interviewed women whose relationships, confidence and daily comfort have been wrecked by it, as well as women post cancer who aren’t ‘allowed’ vaginal oestrogen.

Once I had a prescription my symptoms entirely resolved within a couple of weeks. Easy. But also, so pointlessly and time-wastingly hard.

Alice Smellie

Alice Smellie is a journalist writing for many national publications, including Daily Mail, Telegraph, and Marie Claire, and is co-author of Cracking the Menopause and Menopause Is Hot: Everything You Need to Know to Thrive with Mariella Frostrup, and a co-founder of campaign group, Menopause Mandate. She lives in Somerset with her three children and two dogs.

The post There’s a reason why your vagina is dry and unhappy appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Over a roast in the local pub last Sunday I found myself literally gritting my teeth in frustration. One girlfriend told me that she only flosses twice a week. Another merrily confessed that she has an annual dentist appointment, but ‘sometimes I forget’! Oh, so funny. I, meanwhile, see the hygienist every three months, and the dentist twice a year. I brush and floss at least twice a day. Who has the best teeth of all? Guess. Not me.

I put this firmly down to menopause. Oral health symptoms are only too common at this time of life, and I seem to have most of them; dry mouth, shifting teeth, and less than optimal gum health (according to my hygienist).

I am obsessed with teeth. Absolutely obsessed. And never more so than now, aged 53, firmly postmenopausal and peering into my mouth like it’s a crime scene. As I say, I put most of this down to menopause, with a grumpy nod to the actual ageing process. Every part of the body is affected by oestrogen, or a lack of it, including the mouth.

Dr Sam Jethwa at Bespoke Smile (and the 19th president of British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry) tells me that many of his patients come to see him in their forties and fifties, baffled by the changes in their once-excellent teeth.

So what goes wrong, exactly?

Hormonal changes, he points out, can decrease salivary gland output, causing some women to experience a dry mouth. What’s more, saliva protects our mouth, so when there’s less of it, bacteria can breed faster and food debris is less likely to be washed away. This can lead to tooth decay, bad breath, infections and gum problems.

This last is – annoyingly for me – not just about mouth health. Develop periodontitis, or end-game gum disease, and not only might you lose teeth, but the associated inflammation can spread throughout the body and raise the risk of heart disease, diabetes and even Alzheimer’s. In spite of my efforts, every time I see the hygienist she patiently tells me how to brush my teeth. I am 53. Neither of us enjoys my visits.

Next up – shifting teeth, again linked to hormones. Bone loss in the jaw may decrease, leading to loose, or even lost, teeth. Anyone else have braces in their teens and think that meant you’d have good teeth for ever? Yeah, me too. And in the early nineties they didn’t give you a retainer. I had braces in my late thirties (for the second time) and in spite of wearing a nightly retainer, they are once again inching inwards.

And finally – teeth chip and stain, meaning they are now less than sparkling. You might find the trend for perfect white teeth annoying. Why should we have to bow down to societal pressure and exhausting standards? But it’s a fact that good teeth mean a comfortable mouth, easier eating (seriously – you don’t want to be stuck on soft foods) and are a good indication and impression of overall health. There’s no need to go full Hollywood smile by any means, but maintenance matters.

Read more: Why people lie about their tweakments to their other halves 

Thankfully, there are plenty of solutions

Sam recommends reducing alcohol and caffeine, which both dry the mouth. Try chewing sugar free gum, drinking plenty of fluids (though not alcohol and caffeine and rinsing with water after eating. So far, so obvious. As is flossing daily and brushing teeth twice a day – before breakfast and before bed.

I think that the strangest menopause mouth problem is what’s known as burning mouth

When it comes to cosmetics, Sam points out that a little can go a long way – veneers and composite bonding can help to both strengthen the teeth, and allow them to appear aesthetically pleasing.

I think that the strangest menopause mouth problem is what’s known as burning mouth – where it feels as though your mouth has been set on fire from the inside. Here, you might want to avoid toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulphate or SLS (this is what makes it foamy, but can also increase the burning), as well as swerving spicy foods and alcohol.

Here’s the good news. Sam says that there is a solution for almost every menopausal mouth problem. Teeth can be strengthened, straightened, whitened and – if necessary – replaced. Habits can be changed.

I second this. What I’ve learned in years of writing about the ageing mouth (so glam) is that the mouth is a constantly evolving story and it’s never too late for a happy ending.

Go on love, give us a smile!

Why not try….

TePe Hydrating Mouthwash, £8
Dentek Easy Brush Eco Friendly interdental brushes, £9.25 for 6 packs or £2.33 individual pack, boots.com 
Biotene Dry Mouth Toothpaste, £4.32
Whites Rose Gold Sonic Electric Toothbrush, £39.99

Alice Smellie

Alice Smellie is a journalist writing for many national publications, including Daily Mail, Telegraph, and Marie Claire, and is co-author of Cracking the Menopause and Menopause Is Hot: Everything You Need to Know to Thrive with Mariella Frostrup, and a co-founder of campaign group, Menopause Mandate. She lives in Somerset with her three children and two dogs.

The post What the hell has menopause done to my teeth? appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Age UK’s recent statistics show that over 1 million older people are spending Christmas day alone this year. More than 1 in 10 people (11%) will eat Christmas dinner alone, and 5% won’t see or speak to anyone the entire day.

It’s hard to be alone for the holidays, but there are ways to beat the loneliness. Here are a few of our suggestions on how to still make the most of the season.

Find local events

There are plenty of local events on at Christmas time to help communities connect and enjoy the holidays together. Local hubs, churches, libraries, pubs and more are often hosting festive events.

You could attend a Christmas dinner hosted at a local community hub, or a carol service at your local church. Or you could pop down to a nearby pub and see what events or live music are happening that day.

There are also charities designed to help communities come together to improve wellbeing and beat loneliness. Ramblers offers wellbeing walking groups, while Reengage have social groups for older folks looking to make new friends in their local area.

Chat online

If you’re able to reach family and friends online, video calls are a great way to stay connected when you’re apart. But for those who can’t, there are plenty of other ways to use our phones and the internet to connect with others.

Charities like The Silver Line (run by Age UK) offer support for people aged 55+ who are experiencing loneliness. You can give them a call, and they’ll happily chat with you, offering support and friendship in difficult times.

Whether you’re feeling down, or just want a quick chat, their lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so there’s always someone to talk to.

Make Christmas day special, just for you

Some of us aren’t up for going out on Christmas, or maybe don’t have the means to do so. But that doesn’t mean Christmas can’t still be a special day.

Why not make a delicious Christmas dinner for one (or order your favourite takeaway), or put on your favourite film with a nice glass of wine. Dust off some of the things tucked away for a ‘special occasion’ and use them to make the day a little more special.

Try to reframe the day not as one where you’re stuck by yourself, but as a day dedicated to you. Whether it’s some nice food, a good book or just a cozy pyjama day in bed, make the most of it and do something special for yourself.

Make Christmas special for someone else

Volunteering is a great way to give back to others at Christmas. Local food banks, shelters and more are always looking for volunteers, especially during the cold winter months.

By volunteering, you can chat with fellow volunteers and those you’re helping, all while making a real difference to people’s lives. Consider spending Christmas morning dishing out food at your local soup kitchen, spreading warmth and joy to those who need it most.

Not only will you be helping those around you, but you’ll boost your own mood by seeing the positive impact of your work. It’s a truly rewarding way to spend the holidays.

For more information on finding local volunteering opportunities, click here.

Let yourself feel lonely

Keeping busy can be a great way to distract yourself from feeling lonely, but it can also be good to stop and take time to feel these feelings too.

Loneliness is something a lot of us will experience this Christmas. It’s important that we allow ourselves to feel this loneliness, to take control of it so that we can lessen the power it has over us, and continue with our lives. After all, if you shine the light on darkness, it disappears.

Accept that you feel lonely, take time to understand and process these feelings. And, when you’re ready, choose to carry on.

You can find support and advice on dealing with loneliness here.

Aiden Winn

Aiden is an editorial and production staffer at Title Media. He’s constantly looking for opportunities to have fun and get creative, whether it be art, baking, storytelling… you name it!

The post How to beat loneliness at Christmas appeared first on Silver Magazine.

This is despite the fact that discriminating against someone for their age is illegal. Here’s how to create the best CV and avoid being judged on your age when you’re over 50.

According to the Office for National Statistics, Britain’s unemployment rate climbed to 4.7 % in the three months to May 2025, leaving about 1.67 million people without work. 

Over the same period, the number of job vacancies fell by 56,000 (a 5.8 % drop), reducing the total to around 718,000 open roles.

It’s tough out there.

Remove non-essential information

Under the Equality Act of 2010 it’s illegal to discriminate against someone based on age, so you don’t have to state your age if you don’t want to. Employers should choose the individual best suited to a role, so allow your skills, experience and passion to take centre stage instead.

Your specific address (general location is fine), personal circumstances and photos can also be removed. These don’t explain why someone should hire you. Instead, fill valuable space with detail that will show off your skills. Speaking of which…

Restrict CVs to two pages – absolute maximum

Job searching is extremely competitive. At best, recruiters spend around seven seconds to scan a CV; increasingly it’s more likely they’ll use AI to do it for them. So applicants need to stand out as quickly and clearly as possible. Highlighting your skills, experiences, and interests in a concise manner is more likely to maintain interest.

Buzzwords and templates

Don’t waffle, or fill your CV with buzzwords and nonsense. Even if you work in marketing. Also, CVs should be tailored to each job, using only the relevant skills for the application. Research each vacancy beforehand to handpick the best skills to target and jumpstart you higher up in the list.

Emphasise experience over age

Experience is often preferred to education. Showing you have years of developed skills is better than a list of qualifications or degree in something less relevant. Strike a positive tone and list key abilities before academic qualifications on your resume for the recruiter to see this first.

Include a professional summary

An even better way to grab attention from the get-go is to start with a professional summary: a concise (no waffle!) overview of you and your talents. The benefit of this is the hirer has everything they need in a tightly worded package. They can explore further once you’ve grabbed their attention.

Enjoying this article? More of an entrepreneur? Maybe you’d like this piece about raising investment for your own business

Sell your technical skills

Employers need to know that you’re as technically proficient as someone 20 years younger. Prove that you’re up to date with the latest tools and platforms by including them in your CV. This includes skills you’ve learned in lockdown – research shows it can take as little as 10 days to learn a new technical skill. Both Google and LinkedIn offer free courses, but a search on the web will turn up plenty of learning opportunity.

Just remember to avoid unnecessary jargon or ‘inside lingo’ that some hirers may not understand, and break up technical content with softer skills to add a human feel.

Network, network, network!

Most job applications are now online which, depending on your expertise, may not be ideal. But that doesn’t mean it’s what you must rely on. Also referred to as the Hidden Job Market, some research suggests as many as 70 per cent of jobs aren’t even posted online or shared publicly. If you’re used to the word-of-mouth approach to secure a job then keep practicing this alongside online applications.

If content is King, then design is its Queen

How a CV appears is just as important as the information it provides, so a good visual balance will mean the reader focuses on what matters the most: your qualifications. Keep your CV polished by incorporating bullet points, short summaries, and a mix of formats for clarity. Make it visually pleasing but avoid overly elaborate designs.

And finally, should you use AI to write your CV?

There’s no reason why you can’t get Chat etc to help you get started, or make drafts or suggestions. But don’t just hand the whole job over. Edit your CV, make sure it has your tone of voice. Employers can spot AI, and many might not be keen if they think you can’t be bothered to even write your own resume. But yes, AI is a great tool in your CV building arsenal, used well.

Thanks to the experts at Resume.io for this advice on resume building

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The post Beat the ageism game. How to create a great CV when you’re over 50 appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Enhancing intimacy in any relationship involves creating a comfortable environment. Adjusting factors like lighting, room temperature and music can significantly improve the experience, as we all know. Introducing discreet items can also add variety and pleasure.

Intimacy is a vital part of human connection at every stage of life, and for couples in their midlife it can take on new depth and meaning. While physical changes and shifting routines may require some adaptation, the essence of closeness remains the same: creating an environment where comfort, trust and pleasure can flourish.

We might not be gymnasts in the bedroom anymore, but with a few thoughtful adjustments, couples can continue to enjoy fulfilling intimacy that strengthens both emotional bonds and overall wellbeing.

Creating the right atmosphere

The setting in which intimacy takes place has a profound influence on how relaxed and connected partners feel. Lighting, temperature and sound all contribute to the mood, and small changes can make a significant difference. Soft, warm lighting helps create a sense of calm and privacy. Adjustable lamps or candles are simple ways to introduce a more romantic ambience.

Room temperature is equally important – and as we age, we are more sensitive to heat and cold. A space that is too hot or too cold can quickly become uncomfortable, pulling attention away from the moment. Keeping the environment cosy, with the option of a throw or blanket to snuggle under ensures both partners stay comfortable. Even background details such as humidity can affect comfort levels, so it is worth paying attention to how the room feels overall.

Music is another powerful tool for setting the tone. A carefully chosen playlist of gentle, sensual tracks can encourage relaxation and closeness. Instrumental pieces or songs with minimal lyrics often work best, allowing couples to focus on one another without vocal distraction. The key is to select music that both parties enjoy.

Balancing comfort and confidence

As we age, intimacy can sometimes feel more complex, but it is also an opportunity to explore new ways of connecting. Comfort is not only physical but also emotional. Open communication about preferences, boundaries and desires helps build confidence and reduces anxiety. Couples who talk honestly about what feels good and what doesn’t are more likely to enjoy a rewarding experience together.

Practical adjustments can also support comfort. For example, ensuring the bed or seating area is supportive, having water nearby, or arranging the space to minimise interruptions all contribute to a sense of ease. These small considerations allow couples to focus fully on one another rather than on external distractions.

Introducing variety with discreet enhancements

For many couples, introducing variety can help reignite passion and prevent intimacy from becoming routine. Discreet accessories designed to enhance sensation can be incorporated naturally and without pressure. A cock ring, for instance, is one option that some couples find beneficial for adding novelty and prolonging pleasure. When introduced thoughtfully, such items can enrich intimacy without overshadowing the emotional connection at the heart of the relationship.

The emphasis should always be on mutual comfort and curiosity. Exploring new experiences together can foster a sense of playfulness and discovery, strengthening the bond between partners. By approaching these enhancements with openness and respect, couples can find fresh ways to enjoy closeness while maintaining the trust that underpins their relationship.

Read more: Why I cheat on my husband – and it’s not what you think…

The emotional dimension

While physical adjustments and enhancements are valuable, intimacy is equally about emotional connection. Shared laughter, gentle touch and meaningful conversation all contribute to a sense of closeness that extends beyond the bedroom. Many couples find that intimacy becomes more rewarding with age, as it is less about performance and more about genuine connection.

Maintaining intimacy also supports overall wellbeing. Studies have shown that physical closeness can reduce stress, improve sleep and even benefit cardiovascular health. Just as importantly, it nurtures a sense of companionship and belonging, which is vital for emotional resilience.

A positive outlook

Enhancing intimacy in relationships is not about reinventing the wheel but about making thoughtful adjustments that prioritise comfort, communication and connection. From creating the right atmosphere with lighting and music, to maintaining comfort through temperature and setting, to introducing discreet items such as a cock ring for variety, the focus is always on deepening the bond between partners.

Far from diminishing with age, intimacy can become richer and more meaningful. With openness, creativity and care, couples can continue to enjoy fulfilling closeness that enhances both their relationship and their quality of life.

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The post Why mature relationships can mean more adventure in bed… appeared first on Silver Magazine.

But, for some reason, I seem to have gone the other way. Despite the fading eyesight and creaky bones, I’m bolder since hitting 60 than I’ve ever been. It’s the feeling of life getting shorter, mixed with a need to hurry up and get those ambitions ticked off that bucket list before it’s too late that spurs me on. So each trip away becomes a little more daring than the last. That’s why, a month ago, instead of going for a peaceful weekend in the Cotswolds, I chose to take a 48-hour solo holiday in exotic Morocco.

I wasn’t going to rough it, oh no. I mean, I don’t mind a bit of glamping but, this time, I wanted luxury. I was given the opportunity to stay Casa Memoria, a breathtaking villa near Marrakech, and grabbed it with both hands.

Because I only had 48 hours to spare, I made sure my itinerary was action-packed. But that didn’t mean I wasn’t going to have a good few hours indulging in less frenetic activities – namely lounging by the pool and people-watching from cafés and bars in town. I wanted to experience the magic of Morocco but didn’t want to totally wear myself out. Balance is the key to a successful whirlwind two-day escape.

Here’s how it went…

After taking an EasyJet flight from the UK – the return ticket was just £130 – within a few hours, I was at Marrakech airport. A 30-minute taxi ride (which cost around £50) led me to Casa Memoria, a stunning villa set in nine hectares of lush gardens. As I walked through the grand tiled hallway and out into the grounds, palm trees in contrast with the bright green grass and colourful flowers dotted everywhere, the stress of my life in England started to melt away.

The villa itself had a real 1930s vibe to it, even though it was built in 2008. Its six gorgeous suites, which can sleep up to a total of 12, were decked out with traditional zellige tiles and comfy queen-size beds. A strong scent of roses hung filled each room. The air-conditioning gave instant relief from the 40-degree heat outside and promised a great night’s sleep.

On both mornings, I woke to the smell of freshly baked pastries wafting up the stairway. Breakfast could be as minimal or lavish as I liked with a choice of fresh bread with local honey, eggs, strong coffee or mint tea, all prepared by the villa’s talented chef.

The first morning, after breakfast, I walked across the lush lawn to the 25-metre turquoise-tiled pool, heated to a perfect 30 degrees. A waiter appeared to take my drinks order and returned minutes later with water and coffee. I flicked through a novel I’d borrowed from the villa’s quirky book collection and wiggled my toes. This was the life!

After a swim, I decided to have a wander around the grounds

The peacocks, emerging from the olive groves, screeched at me in greeting (I think it was in greeting anyway) as I walked barefoot across the dense and spongey lawn.

Back inside the house, I started to explore. I’d read up a bit on Casa Memoria and had discovered that, despite the building being relatively new, it already had history. It had once been home to the legendary artist Bill Willis, and his bold paintings and sculptures, mixed with ancient Moroccan treasures, featured in every room.

After lunch – cinnamon-dusted chicken and a fresh beetroot salad – on the terrace, I took a 20-minute taxi ride into Marrakech. I soon became lost in the souks, haggling for leather bags and unusual handmade jewellery.

The heat was almost unbearable, and the air was dusty. I dodged the man in the market square offering me a monkey to hold, and swerved the snake charmer and his swaying cobra! I bought a pendant and some healthy tea then made my way ‘home’.

Back at the villa, dinner was pure magic: tender lamb tagine, spiced oranges and creamy crème brûlée, accompanied by chilled local white wine. As the stars came out, I stepped back into the garden. The night was still and warm, the peacocks silent, the scent of flowers divine. Heavenly! That night, I slept like a particularly contented and well-fed baby.

Into the desert…

On the second day, after another delicious breakfast, I headed to the Agafay Desert, about 40 minutes away, for a half-day adventure with Starry Morocco Tours. I started with a camel trek.

When I first saw the camels, with their gyrating jaws and matted fur, the younger, more fearful me kicked it. I had a bad back and climbing up one of these huge humpy beasts looked difficult. I couldn’t imagine that a trek across the sun-baked plains, the Atlas Mountains towering in the distance, aboard one of these stinky creatures would do my sciatica any good, so at first I declined.

Watching other people clamber up though caused me to come to my senses. “I’ll do it!” I shouted. The camel lowered itself by bending its front legs into a kind of kneeling position (although technically I suppose the bending parts are elbows, not knees!) and a kindly man in a turban and long robe helped me up. The initial lurch as the camel returned to standing position was a bit scary but, other than that, the experience was fine. And, oddly, my back felt better after the trek than before.

Then came the real thrill – quad-biking over dunes and rocky trails. The adrenaline rush was unreal as we raced across the desert, following our instructor, dust flying in huge clouds behind us as we rode!

Later, guests at Casa Memoria, could enjoy a traditional Moroccan massage at the neighbouring hotel’s spa. Dinner was another masterpiece: flaky pastries stuffed with aubergine and perfectly spiced chicken that I’m still intending to try cooking at home. As night fell, I sipped cocktails and watched an amazing fire performance – a mesmerising end to a perfect day.

Information

Casa Memoria, an all-inclusive paradise with gourmet meals and drinks included, is perfect for anyone who craves luxury and adventure. It’s romantic enough for a weekend away with a paramour (not that I have one, but I can dream!), ideal for a chic getaway with friends, and is a fabulous venue for a family milestone celebration. The staff made the experience seamless and luxurious. And while it’s not cheap (check prices at Casa Memoria), every moment was worth it.

My stay at Casa Memoria combined sophistication, adventure and Moroccan soul. From the heated pool to the art-filled rooms, from desert thrills to souk treasures, this 48-hour escape was pure joy. I left with memories – and a feeling of pride at being such a daredevil. I’ll cherish that forever.

Jacqui Deevoy

Jacqui Deevoy has been a freelance journalist for over three decades, starting out on teenage magazines, then later working for women’s magazines worldwide, and national newspapers including the Daily Mail, the Mirror, Express and Telegraph. These days, as well as writing for magazines, papers and websites, she produces documentaries and hosts a Monday night talk show for Unprecedented TV.

The post My unforgettable 48-hour solo holiday in Morocco appeared first on Silver Magazine.

In my youth, consciously feeling gratitude was as foreign to me as a far-off galaxy. I was too busy living to pause and really appreciate what I had. If you’d told teenage me that gratitude could transform my health, I wouldn’t have paid much attention.

Despite my mum – who worked all her adult life in mental health – telling me that the mind, body and soul were all linked. And despite me being pretty ‘up’ on all things spiritual, I never once stopped to consider the power of “vitamin G”.

Now, older and humbled by life’s unexpected twists and turns, I’ve come to see gratitude as my daily dose of something we all need. Through personal experience and a deep dive into the science, I’ve learned that gratitude isn’t just a feel-good buzzword. It’s a scientifically backed elixir for overall health and well-being.

I was saying thanks – but did I mean it?

As a child, I was a bit of a whinger. There were many things I didn’t like. Getting up in the morning, milk, most food, going to bed, school… Smells, tastes, textures, certain music all upset me. My mood could go from happy to tearful in a matter of seconds, and small problems could easily sour a happy mood or pleasant day. I had been taught how to say thank you, but I never actually felt gratitude when I said it.

What I didn’t realise as a young person was that this sort of passive negativity was actually poisoning me

To me, being grateful involves a degree of positive outpouring, something I wasn’t very good at. I’ve always found saying thank you difficult. I can give compliments, no problem. Somehow that feels different. But being truly, from-the-heart grateful has never been easy. Did I see it as a weakness? It certainly didn’t sit comfortably with me and, even now, as an adult, I wrestle with it.

What I didn’t realise as a young person was that this sort of passive negativity was actually poisoning me. My stress levels have always been sky-high, I was hyper, my behaviour unpredictable, my sleep erratic.

I carried tension like a second skin. I used to joke that I didn’t need to work out as my muscles were permanently tense. It wasn’t until recently, during a rough patch, when a friend gave me a gratitude journal as a gift and challenged me to write three things I was thankful for each day, that I recognised how life-changing being grateful could be. What started as a half-hearted exercise soon became a lifeline and science explains why.

How does gratitude work? The science…

At first, my journal entries were uninspired. “Thanks for having food to eat, for my nice hair, my comfy bed…” But, over the weeks, I began noticing the really small stuff: the warmth of a sunny morning, a stranger’s smile, the blast of a song I liked from a passing car. I felt lighter, less anxious. My sleep improved, and I even caught myself smiling more.

A 2003 study by Emmons and McCullough found that people who kept gratitude journals reported higher life satisfaction and lower stress, with cortisol levels dropping by up to 23%.

When I made an effort to be more grateful, and to express my gratitude out loud, and more often, everything changed. Being stuck in traffic didn’t bother me like it used to; instead of fuming, I’d remind myself how lucky I was to have a car. Losing work wasn’t a problem; I was thankful for the work I already had and would be able to get in the future. Relationships ending didn’t devastate me the way it once did; I was grateful for the lessons I learned from them and pleased I was free to move on.

A 2010 study in Psychological Science found that gratitude enhances emotional resilience, helping people recover faster from stress and, once I understood this, I worked harder on my daily feelings of gratitude. I soon noticed that feeling grateful on a regular basis rewired my response to life’s little annoyances.

Aaron Burden / Unsplash

The science goes deeper

Gratitude boosts the brain’s feel-good chemicals, dopamine and serotonin. This explains why my mood could be lifted even when life wasn’t going swimmingly. In one experiment, participants who wrote gratitude letters showed increased activity in the brain’s reward centres, effects that lasted months.

For me, jotting down thanks for a friend laughing at one of my corny jokes or for an especially tasty meal became a daily dopamine hit, making the world feel less heavy. A 2019 study from University College London explored this further, revealing that gratitude practices, such as daily reflection on positive events, increased serotonin levels in the brain by up to 18%.

Practising gratitude has also transformed my relationships. In my youth, I took people for granted; my parents’ support, friends’ loyalty… I was too self-absorbed to say thank you with intention. Now, I make a point of expressing appreciation, whether it’s a quick text to a work colleague or a heartfelt message in a (real!) card to a loved one.

Physically, ‘Vitamin G’ has been a game-changer

I used to battle insomnia, my mind racing with worries. But gratitude quietens the noise. Now, I end my day listing three things I’m thankful for. A cosy blanket, a good book, a kind word… and it lulls my brain into rest.

Another study linked gratitude to lower blood pressure and better immune function, suggesting my body was reaping rewards beyond my improved sleep. Even my heart health might be getting a boost.

…gratitude reduces stress, boosts mood, strengthens relationships, improves sleep and supports physical health

When I reflect on what I’m thankful for, I can almost feel my body relax and my breathing slow down. Looking back, I wish I’d embraced Vitamin G sooner. It’s not about ignoring life’s challenges or faking positivity. It’s about spotting the good amid the mess.

The science is clear: gratitude reduces stress, boosts mood, strengthens relationships, improves sleep and supports physical health. I intend to make feeling, really feeling grateful a daily ritual in the hope that it’ll make my day easier and my moving through the world smoother.

If I can become a gratitude convert, anyone can. So, take a dose of Vitamin G today. It’s free, it’s powerful and it might just be the healthiest habit you’ll ever pick up!

Jacqui Deevoy

Jacqui Deevoy has been a freelance journalist for over three decades, starting out on teenage magazines, then later working for women’s magazines worldwide, and national newspapers including the Daily Mail, the Mirror, Express and Telegraph. These days, as well as writing for magazines, papers and websites, she produces documentaries and hosts a Monday night talk show for Unprecedented TV.

The post The scientific health benefits of feeling gratitude appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Many parents struggle with the delicate balance of encouraging meaningful relationships between their children and grandparents whilst navigating generational differences and busy family schedules. The key lies not in forcing these connections, but in creating an environment where genuine bonds can flourish naturally.

Building bridges, not walls

The foundation of strong grandparent-grandchild relationships begins with parents acting as positive facilitators rather than gatekeepers. This means speaking warmly about grandparents in everyday conversation, sharing stories from your own childhood, and highlighting the unique qualities that make each grandparent special. Children pick up on parental attitudes more than we realise, so demonstrating genuine respect and affection for your own parents sets the tone for how children will view these relationships.

Regular communication is essential, but it needn’t be formal or forced. Simple video calls, shared photos, or even voice messages can help maintain connections between visits. The goal is to make grandparents feel like present figures in children’s lives rather than occasional visitors.

Creating meaningful shared experiences

Successful grandparent-grandchild relationships thrive on shared activities that span generational interests. Encourage grandparents to share their hobbies, whether it’s gardening, cooking traditional recipes, or teaching card games. These activities create lasting memories whilst passing down family traditions and skills.

Consider planning regular one-to-one time between each child and their grandparents. This might involve overnight stays, special outings, or simple afternoon activities. Individual attention helps children feel valued and gives grandparents the opportunity to develop unique relationships with each grandchild based on their individual personalities and interests.

Navigating different parenting approaches

Generational differences in child-rearing approaches are inevitable, but they needn’t become sources of conflict. Have honest conversations with grandparents about your parenting boundaries whilst remaining open to their wisdom and experience. Children benefit from seeing that adults can respectfully disagree and still maintain loving relationships.

Allow grandparents some flexibility in their approach. Perhaps they’re more permissive with treats or bedtimes during visits. These differences can actually become special aspects of the grandparent relationship that children cherish, provided safety and core values aren’t compromised.

Special considerations for foster children

Children fostered with an agency like ISP Fostering might initially struggle with trust or feel uncertain about forming new attachments to extended family members.

Patience and consistency are paramount when introducing foster children to grandparents. Start with shorter, less overwhelming interactions and allow relationships to develop gradually. Grandparents should be prepared to follow the child’s lead, offering warmth and stability without pressuring for immediate closeness.

Foster children may also maintain connections with biological grandparents or significant older adults from their past. Supporting these existing relationships, where appropriate and safe, demonstrates respect for the child’s history whilst building new family bonds.

Read more: Can you still get a pension if you’re over 50?

The long-term investment

Strong grandparent-grandchild relationships provide children with additional sources of unconditional love, wisdom, and family identity. These bonds often become even more precious as children mature and begin to appreciate the unique perspective and life experience that grandparents offer.

By encouraging these relationships thoughtfully and consistently, parents create a gift that enriches their children’s lives immeasurably – the joy of truly wanting to spend time with the older generation, not out of obligation, but out of genuine love and connection.

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As we get older, our eyes naturally change. Night vision often declines, glare from headlights becomes more of a problem, and focusing on different distances takes longer. These shifts can creep up gradually, but they have a big impact on how confident and safe you feel behind the wheel. Clear vision isn’t just a comfort, it’s the basis of every safe journey.

The fact is, if your vision isn’t up to scratch, all the speed limits, smart tech and airbags in the world won’t help to make you a safer driver.

It’s estimated that more than two million people in the UK are on the roads with vision that falls below the legal standard. A recent series of inquests revealed the very real human cost; a number of fatal collisions involving drivers with seriously impaired sight.

Remember the numberplate test?

Recently, a senior coroner called the current approach “ineffective”, particularly the number plate test that still exists in modern driving tests, and that so much still hangs on. The message delivered by the coroner was overwhelmingly clear: without reform, more avoidable deaths will follow.

In good daylight you must be able to read a modern number plate from 20 metres and meet a minimum visual acuity of 0.5 (6/12) with both eyes (or one in specific, typically medical cases). Whether you’re spotting a hazard, identifying a vehicle in traffic, or admiring personalised number plates, the ability to read them clearly is non-negotiable.

This might seem sensible on the surface, but critics argue that with advancements in modern technologies, relying on self-declaration and a kerbside reading test is an ineffective measure of one’s eyesight. In fairness, they may have a point.

What does declining vision actually feel like?

More often than not, worsening vision isn’t something you’ll immediately notice. Rather, it sneaks up on you. Astigmatism can smear headlights and streetlamps until they sprout starbursts and streaks. Signs become that bit harder to pick out in the wet, and lane lines seem to shimmer.

Cataracts add halos and glare that makes night driving feel like staring into a floodlight. Glaucoma trims away your peripheral vision, so a cyclist or pedestrian can slip into a blind spot at precisely the wrong moment.

And of course, a general decline in eyesight tends to make vision less defined. Think about the difference between standard definition and 4K – it’s not entirely dissimilar to that.

These aren’t rare edge cases; they’re everyday conditions with very real consequences once the sun goes down.

There’s also a growing frustration among motorists about dazzling headlights

Surveys over the past couple of years suggest the vast majority of drivers have struggled with glare. One RAC study reported more than four in five surveyed saying the problem is getting worse, while government-backed research into headlight impact is now under way. The AA has found similar worries among its members, with many pointing the finger at certain LED setups.

Whether it’s brightness, aim, or contrast with darker roads, the effect is the same: your eyes are working harder to see the roads, meaning that any underlying issue is also being increased in impact.

Read more: “Help – I’m trapped in a sexless marriage”

Mandatory eye tests are being considered for older drivers

Understandably, public debate is lively around the topic; plenty of drivers see this as a step in the right direction. But there are those who worry about fairness and where the line should be drawn. The Association of Optometrists, backed by the College of Optometrists, want to take this further. They’re arguing for full sight tests when you first get your licence, vision checks at each ten-year renewal for most drivers, and more frequent checks, every three years, for those over 70. But it may take some time for this debate to reach a conclusion and for policies to change.

So what can you do in the meantime?

Start by booking an eye test if it’s been a while. One every two years minimum is a good rule of thumb, sooner if something feels off. If night drives have become hazy or headlights leave you dazzled, don’t tough it out; that’s your cue to get checked.

Keep your windscreen and headlamps spotless, consider an anti-reflection coating if you wear specs, and be honest with yourself about long night journeys until your vision is sorted. As for those yellow-tinted “night driving” glasses that pop up online…be wary. They can reduce the overall light reaching your eye, not just the headlight glare. Not really something you want after dark.

Make your eye health checks as frequent as checking your tyre pressure or topping up the washer fluid. Book an eye test – and remind your friends and family to do the same. Forming this small habit now could pay off for years.

In the end, it comes down to something simple. Clearer vision means clearer judgement, faster reactions and fewer nasty surprises. We talk a lot about making our roads safer; this is one area where the fix is refreshingly straightforward. See better, drive better, and help everyone get home in one piece.

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Directed by Chris Columbus (Harry Potter, Mrs Doubtfire), the story follows four retirees at Coopers Chase retirement village: Elizabeth (Helen Mirren), Ron (Pierce Brosnan), Ibrahim (Ben Kingsley) and Joyce (Celia Imrie). All of whom pass at least some of their time investigating cold cases, as the Thursday Murder Club, until a real murder actually lands on their doorstep.

Sir Ben Kingsley, Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan. Giles Keyte/© 2025 Netflix, Inc.

Between them they have a bunch of skills well suited to the job – particularly Elizabeth, who has a shady past as a spy, or something equally secretive in MI6. Also Joyce, who was a nurse and is excellent at knowing things like how long it takes a stab victim to bleed out, and so forth. Joyce’s other skill is making cakes.

If you’ve read the book – and with over 15 million copies of the debut novel sold already, many have – you’ll be familiar with the story. If you haven’t, there are no spoilers in this article. Not that you need worry about it. The book managed to keep me guessing whodunit for quite a while, but somehow on screen it seems less of a challenge to work it all out. I’ll admit that might be down to the fact that I do actually know who dun it. But anyway.

The casting

When you read a book, you picture the characters in your mind. It’s one of the best things about reading as opposed to watching, and I was curious to see how the TMC would translate. Generally, I think this is well cast, although I had Elizabeth down as less emotional and warm. I pictured Eileen Atkins, but got the softer Helen Mirren. Ben Kingsley as Ibrahim was a shoo-in, and Celia Imrie is a cracking Joyce.

But Pierce Brosnan as Red Ron is wildly miscast. Not the lairy, bumptious gobby socialist of the book, Brosnan is way too charming, with a very reserved energy, and don’t get me started on the wildly fluctuating accents. For Ron, I imagined Ray Winstone, not Remington Steele. But not only that, I’m afraid Brosnan is missing the comedy bone. The man is not funny, and Ron’s character in the book is heavy on the comedy.

Pierce Brosnan, Tom Ellis. Giles Keyte/© 2025 Netflix, Inc.

I loved Jonathan Pryce as the delightful Stephen, slowly disappearing into dementia – an excellent bittersweet performance. And there’s a pretty stellar British cast lined up for the other characters, including Naomi Ackie as Donna, Tom Ellis as Jason Ritchie – Ron’s son, David Tennant as Ian Ventham, and Richard E. Grant as gangster Bobby Tanner. Does Grant make a good villain? I’ll let you have a guess at that. I love Grant, but this is not his metier. He’s about as menacing as one of Joyce’s cakes. Daniel Mays makes a great DCI Chris Hudson, with the right touch of comedy and brash faux Sweeney vibes.

Naomi Ackie and Daniel Mays. Giles Keyte/© 2025 Netflix, Inc.

There is some eye candy in the shape of Henry Lloyd-Hughes, who plays a very sexy Bogdan. Perhaps one of the major upgrades in terms of characterisation. And I always love to see David Tennant, although his Ian Ventham is far too much like his recent Tony Baddingham in Jilly Cooper’s Rivals on Disney+. Is this what he does now, play English baddies? I don’t care really, he’s always watchable, but it’s not exactly a stretch for this fine actor.

David Tennant, Henry Lloyd Hughes. Giles Keyte/© 2025 Netflix, Inc.

Mirren, long tipped by fans for the role of Elizabeth, called the book “utterly charming” and said she relished playing the sharp, enigmatic leader of the group. Brosnan described Ron as “a stout fellow of good character… humorous, theatrical, with wonderful set pieces.” Kingsley compared his psychiatrist Ibrahim’s empathy and analysis to his own craft as an actor, while Imrie said she “fell in love” with Joyce’s warmth and innocence.

Helen Mirren, Celia Imrie. Giles Keyte/© 2025 Netflix, Inc.

Great location

Shot at Shepperton Studios and on location in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire, the film brings Coopers Chase vividly to life. Columbus calls it “the Hogwarts version of a retirement community.”

Since its release in 2020, Osman’s debut novel has become the UK’s best-selling book of the decade. He says he was inspired by his mother’s retirement village. “I thought, what if there was a murder here? I bet you these people could solve it.”

This is not challenging or groundbreaking in any sense of the word. Except perhaps for the premise that the main protagonists are in a care home. But it’s great viewing for a Sunday afternoon, and will absolutely appeal to the billions of Agatha Christie et al fans that crowd the world. Myself included. I enjoyed the book, and I enjoyed the film – although the latter perhaps rather less so.

The Thursday Murder Club lands on Netflix globally on Thursday 28 August 2025

Sam Harrington-Lowe

Sam is Silver’s founder and editor-in-chief. She’s largely responsible for organising all the things, but still finds time to do the odd bit of writing. Not enough though. Send help.

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