Look at two photographs of Liliana, taken decades apart, and a lot has changed. But some things haven’t.
Fashion, beauty and self-expression have been part of Liliana’s life since she was a young woman in Italy, when she modelled alongside her sisters.
Liliana and her family had been displaced following the war, and it was during this chapter of her life that she first found herself in front of the camera. She remembers being around the film industry with her sisters and even being offered opportunities to appear in movies, although their mother wouldn’t allow them to pursue them.
Decades later, Liliana found herself modelling once again — this time for a Mecca campaign. She remembers being dressed and styled, having her makeup done and enjoying being back in front of the camera.
Today, Liliana lives at Regis East Malvern in Victoria, and her love of fashion and beauty hasn’t gone anywhere. She still knows exactly what she likes — particularly when it comes to lipstick.
“I love the rosso lipstick.”
And there is much more to Liliana than her sense of style. She’s curious about people, loves a conversation and enjoys discovering other people’s stories.
“Because I talk a lot. So I discover things,” she says.
A lot of life has happened between the two photographs of Liliana. There are decades of experiences, relationships, challenges, stories and memories that can’t be captured in a single image. But look closely and you can also see the person who has been there all along.
To continue recognising International Day of Older Persons this month, we’re celebrating the lives our residents have lived, and continue to live.
Because getting older doesn’t erase the things that make us who we are. Our interests, personalities, preferences and passions don’t come with an expiry date.
Everyone has a story. Sometimes, all we need to do is ask.
