Don't expect many/any replies as can't see a current thread about First Dates. But just in case anyone saw this weeks' episode would be interested to hear your thoughts. 47 yo mum of two Jo (who looked amazing!) on a date with a charming, handsome 51 year old man (so 4 odd years older). They looked like a great match and were getting on well. He asked the dreaded question 'how do you think I am?' and she said late 50's. He was really shocked and that killed the potential they had. Like most of us, he looks his age, but a very good looking, well groomed and young 51. (And nothing wrong with looking in your late fifties mind you - but naturally we all want to be told that we look younger than we are).
BUT I think what happened is that, whenever she sees anyone slightly older than her, she assumes that they're much older, even if she didn't mean it in an offensive way and still thinks he looks very desirable.
For example, I'm 35 and if I clock that someone may be around my age, I automatically think they're in their late 30's/early 40's because I still see myself as in my mid-twenties and can't get to grips with the fact that I look their age as well. Even though I think 'wow, you look great', I ridiculously think 'well I must look younger' (I don't!). Anyway, long story short, I think that she (and me and maybe you) skew our perceptions of looks/age to convince ourselves that, we alone are uniquely bypassing inevitable mortality. (that sounded very pretentious but didn't know how else to put it!).