“The concept of ‘age is just a number’ is frequently used by individuals worldwide, although not everyone subscribes to this belief. The encounter of a 76-year-old grandmother expressing her personal sense of style serves as a poignant example.
Meet Candace Leslie Cima, a multifaceted individual with numerous roles including wife, mother, and grandmother. Yet, beyond these labels, she is an artist, businesswoman, and model. Hailing from Buffalo, New York, this senior citizen runs a blog called ‘Life In My 70s: Aging Is Changing,’ where she offers advice to women on embracing personal growth and transformations as they age, encompassing aspects of lifestyle and fashion. Cima’s interest in the aging process has been long-standing, having developed it during her 20s and 30s. Additionally, she has owned a senior housing facility for several decades, providing her with a profound understanding of aging across diverse backgrounds.
Drawing from her extensive experience with older individuals, Cima firmly asserts, ‘The one thing I know for sure is that Aging is Changing. We are not our mothers or our grandmothers. We now have the chance to be productive, intelligent, compassionate, [and] stylish women throughout our later years.’
Moreover, she maintains an active presence on TikTok, where she shares glimpses of her life and her unique fashion choices with her nearly 100,000 followers. While she garners admiration from many, she also faces criticism from trolls who disapprove of her attire. Unfazed by their negative comments, Cima frequently dons trendy garments, as evidenced in a video where she confidently showcases herself wearing light blue slacks, a white short-sleeved top, and heels. The accompanying text in the video alludes to the remarks she often receives, suggesting she should not wear such outfits at her age of ’60 years old.’ However, she dismisses these comments by revealing her actual age of 75 at the time!
In another TikTok video, filmed during her vacation in Florida, she exudes elegance while strolling near a swimming pool, clad in a chic black one-piece swimsuit. Commenters raved about her astonishing appearance.
Cima created her TikTok account with the intention of inspiring women to embrace the beauty of aging and relinquish the negative stereotypes associated with it. On her blog, she frequently highlights the advantages of aging and how it enriches one’s character. Personally, she finds solace in experiencing reduced stress as she grows older, relishing the opportunity to learn new things and fearlessly embrace life’s adventures. She encourages women, asserting that aging can be the best phase of their lives, emphasizing, ‘Many older women live vibrant and fulfilling lives as they age. More and more women are setting records and breaking through barriers.’
Cima staunchly opposes the notion that older women should conform to societal norms regarding their clothing choices and activities. She strives to challenge the idea that certain limitations are imposed by age.
As she gracefully ages, Cima recognizes the significance of maintaining her well-being. Adopting an active routine, she shares glimpses of her fitness regimen, highlighting her dedication to staying in shape. Her solid yoga practice ensures she remains physically active and healthy. A video showcasing her yoga prowess garnered numerous comments from impressed viewers who admired her flexibility even at her age. One viewer commented, ‘You are so inspiring! I am 44 and have been following a few older women on social media to provide me with examples of graceful and healthy aging.’
Despite facing ageist remarks, Cima refuses to take them personally. At 76 years old, she exemplifies that beauty transcends age. Candace stands as a shining testament to the possibility of aging gracefully on one’s own terms. Share this inspiring story with your loved ones to demonstrate that graceful and vibrant aging is indeed attainable!”
