: Older women are less likely to be online or feel confident with technology, with 23% of women aged 75+ never using the internet.
: In 2021, 3.3 million people aged 65+ lived alone in England and Wales; 36.3% of older women live alone, a slight decrease from 39.2% in 2011. Economic Status & Employment
: Nearly two-thirds of UK women over 50 report mental health difficulties related to menopause, including anxiety and "brain fog," yet many do not seek help due to stigma.
Mature women are a vital and growing part of the workforce, though they face distinct financial hurdles.
This report focuses on the demographic, economic, and social status of mature women in England, based on the latest 2021 Census data and recent Age UK findings.
: The employment rate for women aged 50–64 was 71.6% in 2025. Changes to the State Pension age have driven many women to remain in the workforce longer.