Women are increasingly pushing back against ageist narratives to celebrate the confidence and self-belief they gain after the age of 40 Linda Stinson: 'Those dancers were probably thinking a 40-year-old wouldn’t be as fit as a 20-year old, but I could give those younger people a run for their money' “Life begins at 40” is a well-worn phrase, but ageism is something else that begins in earnest as soon as the candles are blown out on that particular roundy birthday cake. The sad reality is that once you age out of your hot 20s and cool 30s, you’re viewed through a prism tainted by ageism — and gendered ageism in particular. Join the Irish Independent WhatsApp channel Stay up to date with all the latest news.