" as we get older, we find the 'indirects' more tiring and pay for the direct routes"

Some times - but we find we're more picky and would rather choose SQ to say AMS than BA to LHR - 12-15 hours in the hands of the wrong airline is really something worth avoiding

Those are all valid. It also depends if you have a 2-4-1 voucher with BA ... that can alter your choice! Some years ago for Oz we deliberately chose SQ and were pleased with their PE, which was brand new then.