Mental Health

Majority of Women Fear Aging, Survey Reveals

By Corazon Victorino | Update Date: Apr 12, 2024 12:29 AM EDT
sad woman in winter

(Photo : Image by Pawel Kozera from Pixabay)

Aging is a big concern for many women nowadays. 

In a recent survey conducted by Luvly, a platform focusing on face yoga, skincare and wellness, it has been revealed that the fear of aging is pervasive among women, with concerns ranging from societal neglect to challenges in personal and professional spheres.

The survey, which gathered responses from over 2,000 women aged 30 and above, highlighted the multifaceted anxieties surrounding aging.

Beyond concerns about mortality and age-related illnesses, women expressed fears regarding societal expectations, career prospects and interpersonal relationships.

Heather Tinsley-Fix, a senior advisor at the AARP, observed the heightened pressure on women to maintain youthful appearances, perpetuated by societal norms.

A significant finding of the survey indicated that 66% of women found dating more challenging as they age, with some describing it as nearly impossible.

Additionally, one in four women admitted to declining social invitations due to concerns about their age. These sentiments underscored the pervasive impact of ageism on personal well-being and social interactions.

The survey also shed light on workplace discrimination, with one in six women reporting experiences of ageism, such as being denied promotions or job opportunities.

The cumulative effect of societal and workplace pressures manifested in mental health concerns, with 41% of women acknowledging the impact of aging on their mental well-being, including heightened anxiety and depression.

Marina Klimenka, co-founder of Luvly, stressed the need for systemic changes to combat ageism, both in the workplace and in broader society.

"The reality is, you don't suddenly lose your ability to function the day you turn 50," Klimenka told Fortune.

"Many [women] continue working into their later years and offer just as much as their younger colleagues if not more. If we can get rid of such biases, aging would be far less of a worry for many women."

Suggestions included offering flexible work policies and age-inclusive training for hiring managers to foster an environment that values the contributions of seasoned workers.

Outside of the professional realm, cultural narratives surrounding aging must be challenged to promote positive perceptions of growing older.

Examples of positive representation, such as Julia Louis-Dreyfus and initiatives like ABC's Golden Bachelor, offer glimpses of a shifting paradigm where aging is embraced rather than feared.

Experts noted the importance of creating a supportive environment for aging well, highlighting the value of intergenerational connections and the sharing of wisdom.

By challenging ageist attitudes and embracing the realities of aging, society can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for women and individuals of all ages.

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