Hi, newbie here, be gentle.

I've spent the last few hours reading about a zillion threads here on how steel frames are superior in durability and comfort to modern alu frames. I don't want to raise those old debates again. But my specific questions are:

• Do aluminium frames really have a limited lifespan under normal touring/commuter use? (I must have a frame that lasts for the rest of my life, with peak oil and retirement coming on).
• Could the "asshammer" rigidity of an alu frame be mitigated by some sort of shock absorbing system? If so, why aren't they standard?

Some background: I'm nearly 50, haven't been on a bike for many years, but used to cycle a LOT 30 years ago in South Africa on a Peugeot with Reynolds 531 tubing, also a very pricey Eddie Merckx. Steel frames, loved 'em. Nowadays it is almost impossible to get them where I am, in Australia (Perth), unless you are willing to spend absurd amounts of money (this excludes the super cheap and heavy Hi Tensile steel junk frames). Seems that aluminium frames are cheaper to manufacture, so that's where the makers have gone. I'm looking to buy a hybrid/touring bike for long commutes. MUST be very durable and comfortable.