“I like adventure and I’m so bored here.”
Instead of settling into an aged-care facility in Cairns, Hollins, now 74, is planning to move back to Cambodia.
With its incredibly low cost of living, Hollins has budgeted just $2000 a month to live well, factoring in rent on a comfortable house and a carer to cook, clean and provide daily support.
“There’s a really nice place called Kampot on the river and a lot of retirees are going there,” Hollins said.
“There’s a good hospital nearby… and I’ve got lots of really good friends there.”
For the aging carpenter, retiring in Cambodia makes more financial sense and offers a dignified, community-minded alternative to the lonelier realities of Australia’s aged care.
Support is available for those who may be distressed. Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Men’s Referral Service 1300 776 491; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732; National Elder Abuse 1800 ELDERHelp (1800 353 374).