No, 57 is not generally considered old for a woman.
The perception of age has evolved significantly. What was once considered "old" is now seen as middle age or even early retirement years. Here's a breakdown:
Defining Middle Age
According to Merriam Webster, a well-known dictionary, middle age is defined as "the period of life from about 45 to about 64." This definition places a 57-year-old woman well within the bounds of middle age, not old age.
Societal Perspective
In 2021,
Factors Influencing Age Perception
- Health: The physical and mental health of an individual can greatly impact how old they appear and feel.
- Lifestyle: Active individuals may seem younger than their age, while those with sedentary habits may appear older.
- Cultural Norms: Different cultures have varying views on what constitutes “old.”
- Personal Perspective: How one perceives their own age is very subjective.
Conclusion
Considering the dictionary definition of middle age, which includes ages 45 to 64, and societal demographics that show a growing number of women over 40, 57 is firmly within the middle-age range and not typically regarded as old. The perception of "old" is often more about individual health and lifestyle rather than just a chronological number.