The Wrinkle Report Part 1.

Aging Part 1: The Real Talk

The Reality of Aging

You can probably tell from the laughter behind the scenes that we are of a certain age. Some of us feel younger than others, some of us are going through changes, and some are just rolling with it. But let's talk about the real experience of aging.

I remember being 32 and someone saying to me, "Wait till you're 40." And I thought, What happens at 40? Fast forward—40 came and went, 50 arrived, and here I am saying, You know what? Aging isn’t what I expected. Some things I was warned about never happened, while others hit me like a ton of bricks.

The Physical Changes

So what really happens? For starters, let’s talk about hair. Yes, hair starts thinning out. It happens to many of us, and though there are products that help, it’s still a reality. And then there are the eyes—oh, the eyes! I used to memorize eye charts to avoid glasses, but now? I have readers everywhere: in the car, in the kitchen, by the bed. Aging eyes don’t lie!

Let’s not forget the skin. My hands feel drier than ever. They say eating healthy fats helps with that, but do I always eat right? That’s another story.

The Metabolism Mystery

Weight gain? Oh, that sneaks up on you. For some of us, it started in our 40s; for others, closer to 50. And trust me, it is stubborn. I’ve learned the hard way that diet alone won’t fix it—you have to move, exercise, stay active. But do I love the gym? Not really. Some of us are gym people, and some of us prefer being active in other ways. The key is consistency.

The Mental Shift

One of the biggest surprises about aging isn’t physical—it’s mental. I see things so much more clearly now, and I wish I had this wisdom at 20 or 30. Confidence comes with time, and embracing who you are becomes easier. I’m at the point where I love my gray hair (well, sometimes I color it, but you get the idea). Aging gracefully is about accepting the process while doing what makes you feel your best.

The Aging Dating Pool & Beyond

Now let’s talk about relationships. Is dating different at 50? Absolutely. The dating pool shrinks, but does that mean you give up? No! Some people find love later in life, and some rediscover themselves in new ways. And yes, the physical side of relationships changes too. Let’s just say, for some, things slow down, and for others, things…get dry. But there are solutions for everything!

The Emotional Side of Aging

Beyond the body and dating, there’s the emotional aspect of getting older. Many of us face menopause, empty nests, career changes, and shifting social circles. These changes can bring emotional highs and lows, and for some, even depression. That’s why it’s so important to talk about it. Having friends, family, or even a professional support system can make all the difference.

Embracing Aging

Aging isn’t just about what you see in the mirror; it’s about how you feel inside. It’s about being happy with yourself, embracing the changes, and making choices that keep you feeling vibrant. Whether it’s staying active, eating right, or just maintaining a positive mindset, aging is a journey we all take.

And let’s not forget, some of us age like fine Caribbean rum cake—better with time!

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we tackle health concerns, menopause in the workplace, and how the choices we make in our younger years catch up with us later in life. Let’s keep the conversation going!