Ageing stress hits Aussie work and social lives
Newspoll research has confirmed that there is a double standard regarding perceptions of men and women ageing, with men being granted much more leeway over their appearances.
The research survey showed that eight in ten believed that society judged them differently, with women being seen as looking more haggard (55%) as they aged, and more stressed (66%).
By contrast, men were thought to look more distinguished (73%) as they aged, and in control (55%).
The ageing stress also seemed to be affecting relationships, with one third of those surveyed saying they wanted to change something about their partner’s look, and 87% placing high importance on personally looking good.
One in four said they worried about socialising, because they were concerned about their appearances and looking too old, with the 25 to 34 year olds being more worried than any other single age group.
The figures reflected concerns over both work and sex lives for Australians as they aged, with 31% thinking others thought they could be too old for their jobs, and 40% worrying that their partner may not find them attractive or sexy over time.