I understand that, and being about the same age, I know perfectly well what you are saying.
But even way older woman can be beautiful and desired, such is good to keep in mind. But also our age. 
I had this week/past week a small encounter that made me think it is also a mind set. Maybe now is a good time to share.
I was on the bike, waiting for a bridge to close. And I felt a look/gaze, I looked from the corner of my eyes, a bit older guy, 50 or such, standing next to the bridge, and not bad. I looked full, in the eyes, and gave a nod. Such nod saying: ah, you still don’t look that bad either. He smiled, I smiled, and off I went. (bridge down)
It was even not flirting, it was just a kind of two way acknowledgement. Of which, I’m pretty sure, gave us both a good feeling.
