Stop writing off women of a certain age, says Kirsty, 62
SHE once famously entered the BBC ageism debate, insisting no barriers should be placed in the way of older women working in television.
Now veteran Scots broadcaster Kirsty Wark has said society should stop writing off women in their sixties as they ‘are, in many ways, in the prime of their life’.
The 62-year-old Newsnight presenter said it was vital older women ensured they were not simply ‘on tap’ as carers for their parents, children or grandchildren, but also took time away for themselves.
She told the Sunday Post she had no intention of quitting her own job any time soon, adding: ‘Half a century ago, it used to be that women over 60 were thought of as being, if not washed up, then winding down. I would say that’s a complete nonsense now.’
She said there were distinct advantages to hitting your sixties. ‘On one hand, you’re more forgiving; but on the other hand, there’s been this thing that women, particularly of my generation, they have had to please everyone.
‘Women have realised, actually, that’s not necessary. They can stretch themselves too thinly. But you learn to prioritise more, it becomes a really big thing.’
While social attitudes are changing, she said many older women still felt part of the ‘sandwich generation, where they are looking after their parents and perhaps also their children – as well as, indeed, their grandchildren.
She added: ‘There should be recognition women in their sixties play a massive role – and can actually have a bigger role to play.’
By that, she does not mean mothers being at the beck and call of their wider family’s every demand. ‘If women in their sixties have children and grandchildren, I do not think they should give their whole lives over to them. I really don’t think that is a good idea.
‘Women should not always be “on tap”. They should enjoy their families, but they should have time for themselves too.’
The former BBC Celebrity MasterChef finalist highlighted other older female role models, such as fellow TV presenter Lorraine Kelly, 57, and 58-year-old tennis coach Judy Murray, as a clear sign that growing old gracefully is becoming more attractive.
Miss Wark admitted it is more vital than ever to make the effort to keep fit, especially after presenting The Menopause and Me earlier this year.
She said: ‘I’ve never had such a reaction to a programme. I had women from all walks of life telling me they phoned their GP, and demanded to be reassessed. It was so lovely to hear them say, “You know, that programme changed my life”.’
She has little desire to turn back the clock. ‘No, I wouldn’t. I’ve been lucky. I wish my knee didn’t hurt. I wish I hadn’t broken my nose twice. But all those things are part of the experience of life.
‘Germaine Greer said women become invisible after their forties. I don’t think that’s the case any more.’