Women, particularly in Western countries like the United States, can feel pressured to slow or even prevent the natural aging process. However, healthy aging is a much more suitable goal for long-term happiness and well-being. In fact, viewing aging in a positive light is linked with higher levels of optimism and life satisfaction.
Why Do Some Women Fear Aging?
Despite the benefits of approaching aging with a cheerful outlook, many people are fearful of getting older. Studies have found that even women in their teen years show some anxiety toward aging. Pervasive myths and stereotypes about aging are some of the reasons why women develop these negative views.
Concerns about Health
For example, aging in women is inaccurately linked to a decline in health and vitality. For many, declining fertility is a major concern. Although it is commonly stated that conception becomes more difficult as women age, the difference is exaggerated.
While the odds of getting pregnant are highest before 25 (96 percent), they decline to just 78 percent from ages 35 to 39. Further, women can freeze their eggs until their early 40s. Many are also able to carry healthy babies well into their late 40s.
Additionally, some areas of health improve naturally with age. Post-menopause, many women experience an uptick in their emotional health. Part of this is because they are no longer experiencing the hormonal fluctuations and physical symptoms associated with menstruation and menopause.
Fear of Ageism
Ageism and the perception that older women have a more challenging time finding employment is a valid concern. Western society places an oversized importance on appearance. This, combined with unrealistic pressure on women to look young and attractive, means that women can face workplace ageism issues earlier than men.
Companies that actively recruit mature workers can reap many benefits. Older employees are highly skilled and can bring their networks and experience into the workplace. Older workers also tend to take fewer days off and play a key role in leading and supporting teams.
A common explanation for workplace ageism is the concern that older workers will not want to learn new technologies. In reality, older women are just as interested as any other demographic in learning and incorporating technology into their work and daily life.
Healthy Strategies for Women to View Aging Positively
Older women can learn to embrace the aging process and reap the benefits of their experience. In the podcast The New Feminist, model Paulina Porizkova, 58, discussed her journey of accepting aging while working in an image-focused industry. Her experience resonates with millions of women.
There are several ways women can change their perspective on aging and adopt a healthier mindset toward getting older. The first step is to incorporate self-care and healthy aging practices into their daily lives. Some examples include eating a varied and nutritious diet, engaging in frequent exercise, and learning stress management techniques.
In the same vein, women need to remain active in their social circles and communities. Unfortunately, loneliness is far more common among older women than younger women. Studies have shown that loneliness is as harmful to health as smoking. Social isolation can increase the risk of a myriad of chronic health issues, from heart disease to dementia.
Women can maintain their connections by finding opportunities to socialize. Joining clubs and volunteering are great ways to meet other people. Relatedly, older women can take advantage of their reduced responsibilities and increased free time to invest in their hobbies or travel on group excursions.
Another way women can take on a more positive view of aging is by learning about other older women who have made a significant impact on society. For example, author Maya Angelou and celebrity chef Julia Child both had their big break after the age of 50. Reading the biographies of women who achieved later in life can be a rich source of inspiration.
Conclusion
While studies have shown that women experience their peak happiness over 50, many still harbor negative feelings about aging. The best way to counter the stereotypes and misconceptions about older women is to challenge them head-on.
Rather than focusing on what declines with age, women should remember the areas that improve. Older women have a keen sense of who they are, fewer obligations (such as work or children), and decades of experience to draw from.
Leveraging these advantages can help women live full, exciting lives well into their golden years. Of course, in addition to maintaining a positive outlook, healthy aging also hinges on lifestyle choices.