What does 'Women of a certain age' mean? As long as women refuse to say how old they are they will not be treated seriously or professionally in society or in the work place. We women can be our own worst enemies in this area, and allowing men to use that phrase can be patronising too. I am 51. Sometimes I know I forget things, but then I remember I have often forgotten things! Being upset or frustrated or angry about it (I'm not saying you are) makes it worse, so I just relax and enjoy it all.