life after 50
Turning 50 is a milestone. For many women, it's a time when experience, wisdom, and a deeper sense of self begin to blossom. Yet, this pivotal phase of life isn't without its unique challenges – from societal pressures to personal shifts. Let's explore some of the common struggles women over 50 face and find ways to navigate them with strength and purpose.
Physical & Emotional
- Menopause & Beyond: Hormonal changes like menopause can lead to hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and other physical discomforts.
- Shifting Body Image: Societal pressures and ageist beauty standards can make it difficult to embrace the natural changes our bodies undergo.
- Mental Health Awareness: Women over 50 are more susceptible to depression and anxiety.
Societal and Workplace
- Ageism & Sexism: Sadly, women over 50 often encounter ageism and sexism in the workplace and in society as a whole. This can manifest as being overlooked for opportunities, facing discrimination in hiring, or experiencing dismissive attitudes.
- The "Invisibility" Factor: In a culture that often glorifies youth, women over 50 may feel less visible or valued.
Personal Shifts & Relationships
- Empty Nest & Changing Family Dynamics: For women who have raised children, adjusting to an empty nest can be a significant emotional shift.
- Relationships & Caregiving: Women over 50 may find themselves caring for aging parents or facing shifts in long-term relationships.
So, how do we tackle the challenges and changes of aging head-on? Proactively manage your physical health by talking to your doctor about menopause symptoms. There are effective solutions available, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Prioritize your mental well-being too! Embrace the abundance of resources available, from therapists and mental health communities to supportive apps.
Don't tolerate ageism or sexism – advocate for yourself and know your value. Actively make space for yourself, connect with empowering communities, and let your voice be heard. Refuse to let outdated attitudes diminish your power!
More Strategies
- Community & Connection: Surround yourself with positive, supportive women, both within and outside your age group. Join groups focused on your interests, and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
- Redefining Purpose: This is a fantastic time to reassess your goals and dreams. Explore new interests, take a leap of faith with a side hustle, or dedicate your time and skills to volunteering for causes that matter to you.
- Self-Love & Acceptance: Practice radical self-love, acknowledge your strengths, and celebrate your journey. Challenge negative self-talk and focus on what makes you unique and irreplaceable.
Being a woman over 50 is a gift. While challenges exist, so do enormous opportunities. Embrace your power, claim your space, and don't underestimate the incredible wisdom and resilience you carry within you.
Deb Wesley Photography is a boutique portrait studio in Downers Grove, Illinois, outside Chicago.
The studio is having a promotion celebrating women in this age group now with their "50+ and Fabulous" Photo Project. We are going to photograph 25 women over the age of 50 (some way over) and then celebrate with a special event where we can all have a party, meet each other, enjoy the photos of all the amazing shoots, and make new connections! Click below to find out more about the 50+ session opportunity.
