ARE WOMEN HAPPIER AS THEY GET OLDER?

Yes

IN the last few days I’ve read uplifting stories about Sheila Hancock, Sharon Stone and Jane Fonda who are ageing like fine wine (“We must embrace our later years”, March 10).

These strong and talented women have been icons for decades and even though they are not as young as they used to be, refuse to be judged by the petty, hollow standards of showbusiness and have looked after their health well.

We can’t eat and drink like we used to in our 20s but thanks to a sensible diet, a little tipple now and then and plenty of exercise, at 63 I’ve never felt fitter or more alive. Julia Gates,

Brighton

No

ALL my four children have flown the nest and have families of their own. When my husband isn’t at work he’s either playing golf or downing pints while watching football at the pub with his friends. In a few short years our busy family life has dwindled to nothing.

Oh, they all made a fuss of me on Mother’s Day; flowers, chocolates and a lovely meal at a nice country pub. But when they all went their separate ways our house felt very quiet and empty.

I would give anything to have a family home full of noise again. It was the happiest time of my life. Catherine Marley,

Exeter