These Women Prove You Don't Have To Feel Invisible After 50

These Women Prove You Don't Have To Feel Invisible After 50
Actress Julianne Moore arrives at the world premiere of "Carrie" at the ArcLight Hollywood on Monday, Oct. 7, 2013 in Los Angeles. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)
Actress Julianne Moore arrives at the world premiere of "Carrie" at the ArcLight Hollywood on Monday, Oct. 7, 2013 in Los Angeles. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

A few years back, a survey discovered that eight out of 10 women over the age of 50 believe they are "invisible" to members of the opposite sex. Although everyone has to confront the signs of aging -- whether it be a new wrinkle or an achy joint -- invisibility is different. Feeling invisible is a feeling that you are no longer a vital, desirable person in the eyes of those around you.

In the same vein, one of our bloggers, Arlene Schindler, wrote earlier this month about how she feels invisible when walking down the street now that she's a woman in her 50s. People pass by her, she says, without nary a glance in her direction. It's no surprise, then, that she also believes no one wants to date a midlife woman either.

The reaction on Facebook to Schindler's piece was staggering. Some readers felt a kinship with Schindler, agreeing that they, too, feel discouraged by a lack of attention after 50.

"I am totally invisible... even to the old hairy geezers. I cannot tell you how many times I've had a bank or store door slammed in my face by the ignorant male in front of me just because I'm not 20 years old, blonde and with humungous boobs," wrote Patricia Rezzonico. "And when I'm standing in line? It's like I'm not even there. Ever try going to Home Depot and asking a man for help? Hah! And two of my younger female co-workers have told me in the past, 'Nobody wants you... you're too old and you can't have children,' followed by, 'Nobody want you, they want someone young like me'."

Other readers, though, argue that people pick up on a woman's feelings about herself, no matter what their age. In order to get noticed, a woman just needs to exude confidence and a positive attitude.

"It all begins with you... in your brain... and it is all up to you... whether or not to drink the Kool-Aid of age restraints that affect every aspect of living... from being successful, productive and sexual at any age," wrote Theresa LaSalle. "That is what people pick up on... how you see yourself. Therefore empower yourself... by being the best you can be... and then discard how people who are unenlightened view you. Poor them."

No doubt the subject of invisibility after 50 strikes a nerve. Here's what a few other readers had to say about feeling invisible after 50. Their responses may surprise you. What do you think? Let us know in comments.

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