Oct 31, 20235 min read

Women and Ageing

As women age, they often face a variety of physical, emotional, and social changes that can impact their well-being and quality of life. While aging is a natural and inevitable process, many women may feel pressure to maintain their youthful appearance and vitality, despite the passage of time. In this chapter, we will explore the unique experiences of women and aging, including the challenges they may face and the opportunities for growth and transformation that come with this life stage.

Physical Changes

One of the most noticeable changes that us women experience as we age is the physical transformation of our bodies. Menopause, which typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and can bring a host of changes, including hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Many of us may also experience a decline in bone density, muscle mass, and metabolism, which can lead to weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases

These changes can be difficult to manage and adjust to, but 50% of the population are all experiencing the same changes - we have to remember we are not alone, despite possibly feeling this way!

I personally remember waking up one day and being seriously shocked at what I was looking at in the mirror. Weight gain on my stomach and hips, my skin looking sallow, my hair receding. Even aestheticians aren't immune to ageing despite all of the tricks of the trade that we have to hand!!!

Emotional Changes

In addition to physical changes, women may also experience emotional changes as they age. Many women report feeling a sense of loss or grief as they transition out of their reproductive years and begin to confront their own mortality. We may also feel pressure to conform to cultural expectations of what it means to be an "older woman," which can lead to feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt. However, research also suggests that many of us experience increased emotional resilience and wisdom as we age, which can lead to greater contentment and fulfilment in later life.

I love how other cultures frame this chapter as "stepping into elder" - which brings wisdom, compassion, self assurance and strength. The journey may be rocky at times but, personally I feel like I am stepping into my greatest chapter yet.

Gone are the days of teenage angst, feeling awkward and lost in my 20's, slightly bonkers in my 30's..... hitting the 40's was a relief. Being technically (If you do this by number) middle aged is a time for self reflection, an opportunity for growth and development in a way I could have never managed before.

Social Changes

As we age, we are susceptible to changes in our social roles and relationships. Retirement, for example, can provide a sense of freedom and autonomy, but it can also lead to a loss of identity and purpose for women who have defined themselves primarily through their work. Additionally, women may face social isolation and loneliness as they age, particularly if they are widowed or have limited social networks.

However, many women also report feeling a sense of community and connection with others as they age. As we step into our best and most wise versions of ourselves, having survived this thing we call LIFE, we are more able to reflect on the things we cherish and the more important aspects of life that we just don't relate to in our youth.

Ageing is a powerful tool for opportunities for growth, self-reflection, and meaningful engagement with others. By recognising the unique experiences of other women and aging and supporting other women through this life stage, we can help ensure that women of all ages are able to live fulfilling and vibrant lives.

CONNECTION IS KEY

"Age is nothing but a number" is a common phrase used to suggest that a person's age is not the most important factor in determining their abilities, potential, or value. The phrase implies that a person's worth and abilities should not be defined by their age, but rather by their skills, experience, and character.

While age can certainly influence a person's physical and cognitive abilities, it does not necessarily determine their potential or accomplishments. Many people have achieved great success and made significant contributions to their fields well into their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond. Additionally, age can bring with it unique experiences, wisdom, and perspective that can be valuable assets in many contexts.

However, it is also important to acknowledge that ageism and age-based discrimination continue to be pervasive issues in many societies, and that the phrase "age is nothing but a number" may overlook the real challenges that older individuals face in terms of access to opportunities, healthcare, and social inclusion. Ultimately, while age should not be a limiting factor, it is important to recognise and address the ways in which age can intersect with other forms of identity and inequality.

Here are some notable women in their 40s to 70s who have made significant contributions to their fields and changed the world:

1. Ruth Bader Ginsburg (1933-2020) - U.S. Supreme Court Justice and women's rights advocate

2. Oprah Winfrey (born 1954) - Media mogul, philanthropist, and advocate for social change

3. Angela Merkel (born 1954) - German Chancellor and influential leader in European politics

4. Malala Yousafzai (born 1997) - Pakistani activist for girls' education and Nobel Peace Prize laureate

5. Jane Goodall (born 1934) - Primatologist and environmental activist

6. Hillary Clinton (born 1947) - Former U.S. Secretary of State and advocate for women's rights and global diplomacy

7. Maya Angelou (1928-2014) - Poet, author, and civil rights activist

8. Gloria Steinem (born 1934) - Feminist activist and writer

9. Condoleezza Rice (born 1954) - Former U.S. Secretary of State and political scientist

10. Toni Morrison (1931-2019) - Pulitzer Prize-winning author and social commentator

11. Margaret Thatcher (1925-2013) - Former British Prime Minister and influential conservative leader

12. Indra Nooyi (born 1955) - Businesswoman and former CEO of PepsiCo

13. Mary Barra (born 1961) - Businesswoman and CEO of General Motors

14. Ursula von der Leyen (born 1958) - President of the European Commission and former German Defense Minister

15. Nancy Pelosi (born 1940) - Speaker of the United States House of Representatives and political leader.

This list is by no means exhaustive, but it provides a glimpse into the diverse accomplishments of women in their 40s to 70s who have made significant contributions to their fields and society as a whole, despite the challenges faced by all women as we get older.

50 IS THE NEW 40

60 IS THE NEW 50

70 IS THE NEW MILLENNIAL