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Ageless Power: How Women Over 70 Are Shaping the Future
Age is often seen as a limitation, but for many women over 70, it is a source of strength, wisdom, and continued purpose. These women have spent decades gathering knowledge, navigating challenges, and shaping communities. Today, they are authors, activists, mentors, and leaders—proving that their impact only deepens with time.
Take Gloria Steinem, now in her late 80s, who continues her work in feminism and human rights advocacy. Or Jane Goodall, whose groundbreaking work in primatology has evolved into global conservation and youth education efforts. Beyond the well-known figures, countless women in their 70s and beyond are making a difference at local levels—leading nonprofits, mentoring younger generations, and starting new businesses.
One such inspiring woman is Betty Reid Soskin (1921–2022). At 85, Soskin became the oldest serving National Park Ranger in the United States, sharing her invaluable insights into African American history and the civil rights movement. She retired at the age of 100, leaving a legacy of dedication and storytelling.
Another modern trailblazer is Dr. Katalin Karikó, the 69-year-old scientist whose groundbreaking research in mRNA technology led to the development of COVID-19 vaccines. While she’s just shy of 70, her influence in the scientific community is only growing. Karikó continues to inspire younger generations, advocating for persistence in research and innovation.
The participation of older women in the workforce has seen a notable increase over the past decades. As of 2023, women aged 55 and over constituted 33.6% of the labor force, a rise of seven percentage points since 2000. This growth is even more pronounced among women in their 60s and 70s. Specifically, the percentage of women aged 65 and older in the workforce grew from 23% in 2000 to 29.5% in 2023. This trend reflects both a growing population of older women and a higher labor force participation rate among this demographic.
Many of these women are also challenging ageist stereotypes by embracing technology, advocating for policy changes, and engaging in lifelong learning. Whether through writing, teaching, activism, or entrepreneurship, they remind us that wisdom is not just about knowledge but also about action.
The stories of these women serve as a powerful reminder: aging is not an end, but a continuation of purpose. Their resilience and contributions inspire us to embrace the possibilities of every stage in life.
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