As a 51-year-old woman working in the public eye, and a former model who was deemed “old” at 25, I have seen firsthand how perceptions of aging, particularly for women, have evolved—or not—over the years. Demi Moore’s recent reflections on this topic in an interview with Variety shed light on both progress and persisting challenges.

In the interview, Moore discussed her role in the newly released series Feud: Capote Vs The Swans, where she portrays Ann Woodward. She remarked, “It has shifted. There’s evolution that has occurred, even, I would say from when I was 40.” Her words resonate with many women who have navigated the shifting ideals of societal expectations as they age.

Moore highlighted a crucial point: the industry’s historical perception of women has been closely tied to their fertility, fostering a culture of shame and stigma around aging. “If we really look at the deeper crux of this, what we’re looking at is this old idea that women’s value and desirability was tied to their fertility,” she explained. This outdated notion has long dictated the careers and self-worth of women in the public eye.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I can attest to the pressure to maintain a youthful appearance. At 25, during my modeling career, I was told I was already old. This harsh judgment based solely on age was disheartening and reflective of a broader cultural issue. Now, still working in the public eye, I sometimes encounter expectations as a woman to continue looking a certain way. I admit that I do look younger than my actual age, but as my body changes, I do experience the notion of maintaining a certain physique as a woman to remain attractive by beauty standards.

Moore’s comments on debunking these age-related rules are encouraging. She asserted, “Who’s to say that somebody’s not sexy? It was really something that was tied to that time period of a woman’s life. I think we’re kind of debunking these rules.” This shift is evident in her own career resurgence and the broader acceptance of diverse representations of women in media.

Adding to this shift is the slow but steady growth of women using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to challenge traditional beauty ideals. Many of these women have found remarkable success, transforming into beauty brand ambassadors, fashion models, and influencers with significant followings. Their content resonates with countless women who relate to their experiences of aging, fostering a community that celebrates authenticity over unattainable standards.

However, the question remains: Are these ideals truly changing? The applause and critical acclaim for Moore’s film The Substance, which premiered at the 77th Cannes Film Festival and received an 11-minute standing ovation, suggest a growing appreciation for stories that tackle age-related themes. Yet, societal attitudes are slow to evolve, and many women still face ageism and unrealistic beauty standards.

As we move forward, it is crucial to continue challenging these outdated perceptions. The media industry, influencers, and the public must collectively embrace and celebrate the beauty and wisdom that come with age. Only then can we ensure that the progress Demi Moore speaks of becomes a lasting reality for all women.