An interview on healthy ageing with Mary Parsissons
From our Humans of Salveo Healthcare series
At Salveo Healthcare, we love sharing the stories of the inspiring people in our community. Today, we’re delighted to introduce Mary Parsissons, whose journey is a testament to resilience, lifelong learning, and the power of staying connected.
Early Life and Career
Mary was born in Launceston, the second of five children, and spent her early years on a farm before moving to Hobart, where she’s lived since. She began her nursing training at just 16, a career that would shape much of her life. Over the years, Mary worked in various areas of nursing, including midwifery and child health, always finding joy and purpose in helping others.
Turning Points and New Perspectives
Life hasn’t always been easy for Mary. She faced challenges, including domestic violence in her first marriage and raising two children on her own before remarrying. A serious car accident became a major turning point. “It turned out that it was the best thing I ever had because it just changed my whole view on life,” Mary says. Counselling after the accident helped her reframe her thinking and opened doors to new opportunities, including volunteering as a telephone counsellor which led to eventually serving as President of Lifeline International for many years.
Staying Active and Engaged
Mary’s days are full and varied. She enjoys attending U3A classes, playing ukulele, joining book groups, and organising outings for her community. “The more I said yes to things, the more doors opened up. And the more interesting life became,” she reflects. Mary also loves making hearty soups with lots of vegetables in them, both for herself and to share with friends who need them, and she values the simple pleasure of a good book and a colourful garden.
Health, Wellbeing, and Managing Stress
Mary believes in the importance of staying active, both physically and mentally. She practices relaxation and reframing techniques learned through counselling and Lifeline workshops. “Is this the worst thing that could happen in the world? For most things, this too will pass,” she reminds herself. Social connections are vital—Mary cherishes time with friends, her daughters, and her granddaughters, and her book club includes many people she used to nurse with.
Being Involved in Health Decisions
For Mary, a good relationship with health providers is key. She asks questions, follows advice, and isn’t afraid to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. “You have to be pretty good with your medications and whatever else they suggest. You ask the questions and then once you’re happy with it, proceed. But if you’re not happy, go back and clarify,” she advises.
Advice for Healthy Ageing
Mary’s top tip? “Keep active. Keep active. Keep active! As far as you possibly can, keep active and involved with other people.” She believes that staying engaged keeps your brain stimulated and your spirits up. Balance is important too—she enjoys quiet time at home but knows the value of getting out and about.
A Life Well-Lived
For Mary, a fulfilling life means being optimistic, staying involved, and always learning. “Even if you really think this is the end of the earth, it’s not going to be. You just keep going and you know, it will pass,” she says. Her career in nursing, her community involvement, and her openness to new experiences have all contributed to a life she describes as “pretty good”.
Advanced Preventative Care Program Experience
Mary appreciates the Advanced Preventative Care Program. She values the regular health checks and the reminders to stay on top of things like checking blood pressure. “If you have any problems, the nurses are easy to talk to,” she says. She also finds reassurance in the logical explanations and support provided by her nurse, especially when navigating changes in health.
Final Thoughts
Mary’s story is a wonderful reminder that life’s challenges can lead to growth, and that staying active, connected, and optimistic is key to healthy ageing. Her journey shows us the value of saying yes to new opportunities and cherishing the everyday moments that make life meaningful.
This information is general in nature and individualised medical advice should be sought from a general practitioner (GP) or appropriate medical practitioner.
