Ageism is alive and well in the world, particularly for women.
We’re expected to look 20 even when we’re in our 40s, 50s, and beyond, and if we don’t, we’re made to feel invisible. People think they’re being nice when they say that you look good “for your age,” but what does age have to do with it? If you’re happy, healthy, and living well, does it really matter how many years you’ve been on this planet? Of course, the person saying this likely means well, but that doesn’t make it any less annoying. The next time someone says this to you, here are some things you can say back.
1. “Thanks, I’ll take that as a compliment.”
Sometimes it’s easier to just accept a comment at face value and move on. Saying “thanks” with a smile lets the person know you’re acknowledging the compliment without getting into the nitty-gritty of the age remark. It’s a graceful way to shift the conversation away from any awkwardness without confrontation.
2. “I’m not sure how to take that, but cheers anyway.”
This one gets a little more real. It acknowledges that the comment was a bit off, but you’re still polite about it. It opens the door for the other person to reflect on their words without making things uncomfortable. Plus, it’s a nice way of keeping the mood light while subtly letting them know the “for your age” part wasn’t necessary.
3. “I just try to take care of myself.”
Here, you’re gracefully dodging the age aspect and instead focusing on health and self-care. It’s a great way to steer the conversation toward something positive—taking care of yourself—while sidestepping any unnecessary focus on age. It’s also a subtle reminder that how you feel and live is more important than how old you are.
4. “Oh, stop it. You’re making me blush.”
A playful response like this can deflect attention from the awkwardness and keep things light. It’s an easy way to redirect the conversation without addressing the “for your age” comment directly. Plus, it keeps the mood fun and doesn’t come across as defensive.
5. “Cheers, I feel pretty good too.”
Source: Unsplash This puts a positive spin on the whole exchange. Instead of focusing on your appearance or age, you’re bringing the conversation to how you feel, which is much more important. It subtly reminds the other person that how you feel matters way more than how you look “for your age.”
6. “I’m not sure age has much to do with it, but thank you.”
Source: Unsplash This is a polite way of gently correcting the comment. You’re accepting the compliment, but also making it clear that age shouldn’t really be part of the equation. It’s a nice way to express gratitude while nudging the conversation in a healthier direction.
7. “That’s kind of you to say.”
Sometimes, the best move is to keep it simple and gracious. Just accepting the compliment as it is without drawing attention to the “for your age” part helps avoid overcomplicating things. It keeps the conversation flowing without making anyone feel uncomfortable.
8. “I reckon everyone looks good at any age.”
This broadens the conversation by emphasising that beauty isn’t tied to a number. It’s a subtle way of rejecting the idea that looking good should be a surprise based on age. It promotes a more inclusive mindset and gently pushes back against age-related stereotypes.
9. “Well, I certainly don’t feel my age.”
This relaxed response acknowledges the age comment but keeps it positive. It’s a playful way of saying, “Yeah, I know how old I am, but I don’t feel it!” It keeps the conversation upbeat while allowing you to poke fun at the assumption that age has to define how you feel.
10. “Thanks, I think. Not sure about the ‘for your age’ bit, though.”
Sometimes honesty is the best route. This calls out the problematic part of the comment in a friendly, straightforward way. You’re accepting the compliment, but also letting the person know that they could leave the age qualifier out next time. It opens up the possibility for a more genuine exchange.
11. “I appreciate the compliment, let’s leave age out of it.”
This is a direct way to set boundaries while still being polite. You’re clearly stating that age doesn’t need to be part of the conversation, but you’re grateful for the kind words. It’s a great way to teach people how to compliment without focusing on age.
12. “You’re sweet, but good looks aren’t age-dependent.”
Here, you’re making the point that attractiveness doesn’t expire. It’s a subtle way of challenging the idea that looking good should be tied to youth. You’re thanking them, but also pushing back on the age part in a kind way.
13. “Thanks, I’m quite happy with how I look.”
Confidence is key, and this response shows you’re comfortable with yourself, regardless of anyone else’s opinion. It’s a simple, confident way to own your appearance and shut down any focus on age. No need to dive into the details—just accept the compliment and keep it moving.
14. “I’ll take the compliment, but maybe skip the age bit next time?”
This is another mix of gratitude and education. You’re happy to accept the compliment, but you’re also pointing out that there’s no need to qualify it with “for your age.” It’s a friendly way of helping someone rethink how they give compliments in the future.
15. “Honestly, I’m not sure how to respond to that.”
Sometimes it’s okay to be upfront and admit when something doesn’t sit right. This response is a little more blunt, but it invites the other person to think about what they said. It can lead to a more thoughtful conversation about why the “for your age” comment might not be necessary or helpful.
16. “Thanks, I think everyone has their own kind of beauty.”
This is a thoughtful response that shifts the focus from yourself to a broader idea of beauty. It’s a gentle reminder that everyone is beautiful in their own way, at any age. It also takes the focus off age and onto something more inclusive and meaningful.
