You’re over 60, and the world wants to see you as a cookie-baking, treat-bringing, butterscotch-toting matron who loves all children but none as much as your own grandchildren.

The problem is that not only are you disinterested in whether you have grandchildren, but you’re not that fond of children in general. And instead of toting butterscotch, you carry a passport, yoga mat, or title of business owner. Or maybe all three and then some.

Feeling disinterested in children or apathetic about the idea of grandchildren might have you wondering, at least occasionally, “What’s wrong with me?”

The answer? Absolutely nothing.

If you don’t want to be a grandmother or never wanted to be a mother in the first place, you’re not alone, and there’s nothing wrong with you. Really.

Not feeling maternal, not enjoying the company of children, and not having a desire to jump on the grandma train are quiet realities for more women than you realize. Just because there’s not a Hallmark card for it or a “Not a Nana Day” on the calendar doesn’t mean those feelings aren’t valid.

Knowing that, however, doesn’t mean you don’t occasionally wonder why your feelings are so different from those of other women you know, and that’s valid too.

Not Every Little Girl Plays with Baby Dolls

There’s an unspoken expectation that little girls will enjoy playing house, nurturing baby dolls, and pretending they’re mommies.

But what if that instinct never manifests?

Some women simply never felt a connection to that maternal role. They didn’t feel it as girls, young women, or in midlife, and they don’t feel it now either.

Instead of wanting to make lunches, volunteer for PTA, and attend endless sports practices and games, they were interested in business, nonprofits, traveling, art, animals, or other adventures.

Or, perhaps they were simply satisfied with living a peaceful, adult-oriented life surrounded by grown-up friends and colleagues.

Sound familiar? You’re in good company if you can identify with the above and have never heard the loud tick-tock of your biological clock.

Yes, the desire to procreate is an evolutionary predisposition for many, and it’s necessary for our species to survive. But maternal instinct isn’t a biological law etched into all female DNA.

It’s not necessary for all women to want the same thing, and recognizing and honoring an aversion to wanting children or grandchildren is arguably one of the most selfless things you can do.

Children are a big responsibility. In the same way that someone who hates blood shouldn’t become a surgeon, someone whose heart isn’t in parenting making the choice not to become one is a valid and responsible choice.

There are many ways to live a meaningful and fulfilling life without wanting to be surrounded by children.

Finding Happiness Outside the Family Tree

Women who don’t define themselves by motherhood or grandmotherhood often find joy and purpose elsewhere. And finding that joy and feeling purposeful matters. A lot.

Women who have

• Traveled the world and immersed themselves in other cultures;
• Spent decades mastering a career or craft;
• Poured energy into meaningful relationships;
• Served their community, been a mentor, or fought for causes;
• Found solitude and self-reflection nourishing and satisfying;
• Lived spontaneously, untethered by generational responsibilities

have all made a difference in the lives of others and the world in general.

Diversity in efforts is crucial for the evolution and advancement of society. If every person decided to become a carpenter, we wouldn’t get very far. So, if your happiness is found and contributions are made in ways not associated with children, you’re doing just fine.

Quieting the “What’s Wrong With Me?” Voice

Yes, yes, logically that might all make sense, but it’s common for many women to feel internally plagued by the question, “What’s wrong with me – why don’t I feel like other women?”

This voice can become especially loud in your 60s and up when many of your peers enthusiastically embrace grandparenthood and explain how being a grandparent is even better than being a parent.

Let’s be very clear about this again – there is NOTHING wrong with you.

Unfortunately, many women who don’t feel this draw to parenting/grandparenting psychologically internalize messages that something is missing from their character. They may struggle with guilt and shame or feel utterly disenfranchised by their peers.

A woman who’s disinterested in children may feel like her emotional make-up is defective. What’s defective, however, is the societal expectation that we should all want the same thing.

Being different and wanting different things doesn’t make you “less than” anyone else. It simply means you have your own compass and followed it, even when it didn’t point in the same direction as everyone else’s. That takes strength and authenticity – and should be admired and appreciated, even if it’s not.

Rewriting the Narrative

When they reach a certain age, typically midlife or later, many women begin to do a deep inventory of their lives. Among the questions often asked are,

• “Have I done everything I wanted to?”
• “Did I fulfill my dreams?”
• “Have I lived well?”
• “Have I missed something?”
• “What kind of legacy will I leave?”

These are all worthy and important questions, but the answers don’t need to hinge solely on grandkids.

If you’ve ever felt like you need to explain or make excuses for your disinterest in these traditional roles (even to yourself) – stop. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for what brings you joy and what doesn’t.

Not wanting grandkids or enjoying children in general doesn’t make you cold, heartless, or a curmudgeon. It simply makes you someone with a different yardstick for fulfillment and happiness.

In fact, this can be the perfect time to explain your own, personal narrative.

In a conversation that warrants it, you can say something like,

• “I’ve always found my greatest joy in ___, and that hasn’t changed.”
• “Kids were never my thing, but mentoring adults? That lights me up.”
• “I love seeing families who are close, but I’m closer to my friends and the tribe I’ve created.”
• “I see how happy your grandkids make you. That’s how I feel about my ______”
• “I’ve dedicated my life to ____ and have experienced so much happiness because of it.”

You’re Not Alone – Even If It Feels That Way  

It may feel at times like you’re the only one who doesn’t have and/or doesn’t want grandchildren. You’re not. Many women over 60 share this feeling but don’t openly talk about it.

In a world that has particular and often strong feelings about what it means to be a woman, it can be difficult to say, “That’s not who I am and I’m good with it. No, I’m more than good – I’m happy about it.”

Being a woman over 60 who doesn’t like kids or want to be a grandmother isn’t a character flaw.

You’re not broken. You’re not lacking. You’re not alone.

You’re just you, and that’s enough.

You’re just you – and that’s exactly all you’re supposed to be.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Are you struggling or uncomfortable because you don’t want or care about being a grandmother? If you’re not a grandmother and are content with it, please share your story and join the conversation.

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By having the courage to choose yourself.

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Although I am always grateful to have been born in the 50s, we were the first generation of women to have children, run a home and go to work full time. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the cut and thrust of it all. Looking back, I wonder how I had enough hours in the day to do all the things I did!

But somewhere, amongst all that craziness of my younger self, I forgot to be nice to me. So, my gift to myself as I age is to bring some little tweaks into my life that make me happy, glad to be alive and as well as I can be.

Meals

When I used to cook family meals, they were always made with love. I cared how they looked, how they tasted and how they were presented. The table would be laid, perhaps a small vase of flowers in the middle, each child would have their own special plate and cup… but the children grew up and left the home and, after a very long marriage, I found myself on my own.

At first, I would just eat anything, a sandwich for dinner, a take-away from the cartons, a few crackers and some cheese while I was working. But then it dawned on me… don’t I deserve to enjoy my meals? There was no one else going to do it for me, so I decided to present my meals as if I was a guest. It has transformed, not only mealtimes, but my self-respect.

Aqua Fit

After a knee injury which limited my walking, I became a convert to aqua fit. I do aqua aerobics three times a week and aqua dance once. I cannot believe what I am able to do once I am in the water :). The changing rooms are filled with women over 50, many with disabilities or injuries, quite a few with excess weight or mobility difficulties. I watch them slowly making their way to the pool, often with sticks or frames, the pain etched on the face of many.

But after getting into the water, they are so agile, working out for almost an hour, laughing, singing (we have great music!) and having a fabulous time. I have become fitter, more mobile, in less pain, and lost a few pounds too. 🙂 

Also read, 12 Best Exercise Classes for Seniors.

Audio Books

I was fortunate not to need reading glasses until I hit my 60s. As a writer and researcher, I had spent many years reading, but somehow glasses made it different. My eyes grew tired, my head ached, so reading, which had always been a passion, fell a little by the wayside. Until one day my neighbour asked me if I had joined the local library audio books.

It has changed so much of my life! Having recently moved to Thomas Hardy country, I had been keen to read all his books, now they are in my car, in the garden, in my bed. 🙂 My 3, 4 or 5 am awakenings instead of being about what-to-do? Became about listen-to-the-next-chapters. I have a list of dozens, probably hundreds, of books that I can bring to life through the medium of audio books. Oh, what joy they bring!

Booking Last Minute

I think I was born to be a nomad! From as early as I can remember, going away has brought me such a sense of adventure. Not only the places I visit and the sights I see, but the people I meet. I have been fortunate to travel to many countries and learned how to make my money go as far as possible. (Read about it in my Travel the World without Breaking the Bank! blog.)

For me, as a solo traveller, booking last minute is a game changer. I don’t mind when I go, how I get there, or where I go, so the possibilities are endless, and I have booked some incredible deals. A 7-night cruise to the Norwegian Fjords for just £499 and a 16-night fly/cruise to Spain, Portugal, Madeira, Barbados, St Lucia, Antigua and St Kitts for £999, are amongst my favourite. If I am cruising, I usually book the smallest inside cabin, which is often a fraction of the price of others. 

Gratitude

After having a few years where my entire life seemed to implode, I forgot to be grateful for the good things. However tough life gets, and mine got pretty tough I have to say, there are always people worse off than you. It took a while, but I finally got there and now, every morning, I start the day with gratitude and thanks.

The more I did that, the more happiness I found in my life. It was like an awakening, and I am so very thankful it happened. I make no apologies for it sounding corny, but listening to the birds, watching the sun rise, walking in the rain, smelling the grass, are all beyond priceless, and give me more happiness than anything I could buy. And the best bit is they are all free! 🙂

Please Join the Conversation:

Have you added some small tweaks to your life? How did it change? Is there something you would like to add?

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Are you struggling with flyaways, humidity, or lackluster strands? You’ll want to check out hair serums for fighting frizz and adding shine to keep your locks looking smooth and radiant from morning until night. A well-formulated hair serum not only tames unruly texture but also seals hair cuticles, locks in moisture, and repels moisture in the air. 

When used regularly, serums can help protect against daily wear – heat styling, brushing, and environmental stressors – so over time your hair feels healthier and looks more polished. Whether your hair is fine, thick, curly, straight, color-treated or natural, there’s a formula here to nourish your type while giving you that coveted glossy finish.

Here are our top hair serums for fighting frizz:

1. Verb Ghost Oil: BEST FOR FINE HAIR – This virtually weightless serum smooths flyaways without leaving any residue, making hair feel soft and bouncy. It’s completely fragrance-free and won’t weigh down delicate strands.
2. John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum: BEST FOR COARSE HAIR – Its concentrated silicones and silk proteins form a strong barrier against humidity for up to 72 hours. Even the thickest, unruliest hair stays sleek in muggy conditions.
3. Moroccanoil Treatment: BEST LUXURY PICK – A blend of argan oil and linseed extract tames frizz, speeds up styling time, and boosts shine. Regular use helps improve elasticity and reduces breakage.
4. OGX Nourishing + Coconut Milk Anti-Frizz Serum: BEST BUDGET OPTION – Enriched with coconut milk and egg white protein, it restores moisture and adds a soft tropical scent. You get reliable frizz control without stretching your budget.
5. Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer: BEST HEAT AND UV PROTECTION – This six-oil complex detangles, conditions, and shields hair from heat up to 450°F and UV damage. It leaves strands silky, protected, and primed for any styling routine.

Keep reading to discover more hair serums that will help you fight frizz and add shine to your hair.

Read more: 2 Surprising Tips for Minimizing Hair Issues in Your 50s and 60s.

What Should I Look for in a Frizz-fighting Serum?

Choosing the right serum starts with ingredients. Seek out:

• Silicones like dimethicone or cyclopentasiloxane. These create a lightweight film on each strand to smooth the cuticle and shield hair from humidity.
• Nourishing oils such as argan, jojoba, or macadamia. They penetrate and replenish lipids in the hair shaft, preventing dryness and breakage.
• Light-diffusing polymers that reflect light and enhance shine without weighing hair down.
• Heat and UV filters if you frequently blow-dry, flat-iron, or spend time outdoors. They help prevent color fade and protect the protein structure of hair.

Reading labels for these components will help you match a serum to your hair’s unique needs: if you have very fine hair, look for minimal oil content; if you color your hair, choose one with UV-protection; if your hair is thick or coarse, pick a formula rich in silicones and oils for extra smoothing power.

How Often and How Do I Apply Hair Serum?

Maximize results by following these tips:

1. Start small – Dispense a pea-sized amount for mid-lengths and ends of shoulder-length hair – adjust for longer or thicker hair by adding a drop or two at a time.
2. Distribute evenly – Rub between palms and lightly finger-comb through damp hair after towel-drying, or apply to dry hair to control flyaways and impart shine mid-day.
3. Avoid roots –  Applying serum too close to the scalp can make hair look greasy; concentrate on areas prone to frizz or split ends.
4. Layer for protection – If you heat-style, let the serum absorb briefly, then follow with your favorite heat protectant spray before blow-drying or ironing.

Use every time you wash for ongoing smoothness; on non-wash days, a light mist of serum on dry hair can refresh and tame any new frizz.

Can Hair Serum Help Damaged or Color-treated Hair?

Yes! Serums often include conditioning agents like panthenol, hydrolyzed proteins, or botanical extracts that strengthen weakened hair fibers. UV filters and antioxidants guard against sun and pollution damage that can accelerate color fade and dryness. Over weeks of regular use, you may notice fewer split ends, less breakage during brushing, and a more even hair surface that reflects light consistently for that salon-fresh shine.

What’s the Difference Between a Serum and an Oil?

While the terms sometimes overlap, here’s a quick guide:

Serums

Serums blend silicones, polymers, and a small percentage of oils – designed for smoothing and shine with humidity resistance. They typically feel lighter and rinse out more easily.

Pure Oils (Coconut, Olive, Argan) 

Oils focus on deep nourishment, penetration, and sealing in moisture; they can be heavier and may require more careful application to avoid limp roots.

If you want sleekness plus protection against frizz, reach for a serum; if your main goal is intensive conditioning, a pure oil or mask may be better.

Hair Serums to Fight Frizz and Add Shine to Your Hair

Moroccanoil Treatment

A pioneer blend, this oil-serum hybrid merges argan oil with linseed extract. It coats each strand to smooth cuticles, speeds up blow-dry time by up to 25%, and enhances manageability. Regular use can improve elasticity and reduce breakage.

Pros:

• Fast absorption, no sticky feel
• Signature scent lingers pleasantly
• Versatile: works on damp or dry hair

Cons:

• Premium price point
• Fragrance can be strong for sensitive noses

John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum

Powered by concentrated silicones and silk protein, this serum delivers up to 72 hours of humidity defense. Its thick, gel-like texture clings to every fiber, making it ideal for coarse, unruly hair in muggy conditions.

Pros:

• Exceptional frizz control even in high humidity
• Widely available in drugstores
• Budget-friendly

Cons:

• Can build up without occasional clarifying shampoo
• May feel heavy on fine or limp hair

OGX Nourishing + Coconut Milk Anti-Frizz Serum

Rich in coconut milk, coconut oil, and whipped egg white protein, this blend restores moisture and elasticity. It reduces breakage by strengthening weak spots and leaves hair with a soft tropical scent.

Pros:

• Sulfate- and paraben-free
• Affordable price tag
• Effective at reducing mid-length frizz

Cons:

• Scent lingers more than some users prefer
• Less smoothing power on very coarse textures

Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream

Though called a cream, its silky-thin formula acts like a serum thanks to the brand’s patented Humidity Block molecule. It smooths strands, seals cuticles, and fortifies hair with conditioning emollients.

Pros:

• Fragrance-free and non-irritating
• Lightweight, builds volume without grease
• Enhances natural waves and curls

Cons:

• Higher investment for a mid-size tube
• Difficult to dispense cleanly toward the end

Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum

Pros:

• Noticeably faster blow-dry process
• Pleasant, mild scent
• Excellent for detangling

Cons:

• May weigh down ultra-fine hair
• Pump can clog if left uncapped

Verb Ghost Oil

A nearly transparent blend of argan oil and vitamin E in a water-thin formula. It leaves hair soft without any trace of greasiness or residue, perfect for fine to medium hair looking for a light shine boost.

Pros:

• Completely fragrance-free
• Very lightweight – no buildup
• Mid-range, wallet-friendly price

Cons:

• Limited frizz-fighting in extreme humidity
• Does not offer heat protection

Redken Frizz Dismiss Instant Deflate Oil-In-Serum

This hybrid uses Smooth-Weight Oil and anti-foam technology to deliver glossy softness and control foam from blow-drying. It smooths on contact and leaves hair feeling silkier with each use.

Pros:

• Dual action: smoothing plus anti-foam
• Salon-grade performance
• Long-lasting frizz defense

Cons:

• On the higher end of pricing
• Fragrance may be too bold for some

Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum

Infused with Moroccan argan oil and apricot extract, this lightweight elixir locks out humidity for up to 72 hours. It reinforces strands to resist breakage and promotes a glass-like shine.

Pros:

• Excellent value for money
• Long-wearing humidity protection
• Easily found in most stores

Cons:

• Contains sulfates earlier in the line (not in serum)
• Strong apricot scent

Kérastase Discipline Keratine Thermique Blow-Dry Primer

A pre-styling milk that acts like a serum, smoothing frizz with keratin and shielding hair from heat up to 450°F. It also provides light hold and a silky finish that lasts all day.

Pros:

• High heat-protection level
• Strengthens hair fiber over time
• Fine mist spray for even coverage

Cons:

• Premium cost
• Requires spray plus additional styling product for hold

Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer

This six-oil blend (coconut, argan, macadamia, almond, grapeseed, mineral) detangles, conditions, and protects against heat and UV damage up to SPF 25. It leaves hair feeling soft, light, and luminous.

Pros:

• Broad-spectrum sun and heat protection
• Luxurious texture and subtle scent
• Multi-use: leave-in, pre-styling, touch-ups

Cons:

• Higher price bracket
• Too rich for very fine or oily hair types

With these ten serums in your regimen, frizz stands no chance – and each drop brings you closer to smooth, shiny hair – day after day. Don’t be afraid to experiment: start with small amounts, layer products when needed, and find the combination that makes your hair feel healthiest and look most luminous. Enjoy the confidence that comes with salon-quality shine at home!

Why These Products Were Chosen for Our List

We selected these ten serums based on a combination of performance, ingredient quality, user feedback, and versatility:

• Proven Frizz Control: Each formula relies on smoothing agents – like silicones or advanced polymers – that are clinically shown to repel humidity and seal the hair cuticle.
• Nourishing Ingredients: We looked for blends containing natural oils (argan, jojoba, coconut) and conditioning proteins to restore moisture and strengthen strands over time.
• Broad Appeal: From lightweight, fragrance-free options for fine hair to richer, oil-infused serums for coarse or color-treated hair, there’s a match for every texture and concern.
• Heat & UV Protection: Many include heat protectants or UV filters, so you can style with hot tools or spend sunny days outdoors while keeping your hair’s health and color intact.
• Accessibility & Value: Our list balances luxury salon-grade picks with drugstore finds, ensuring you can discover an effective serum within your budget.
• Positive User Reviews: We gave top weight to products with consistently high ratings and repeat recommendations from stylists and consumers alike.

This criteria ensures that every serum here not only tackles frizz and adds shine but also supports long-term hair health and fits seamlessly into your routine.

Read more: 10 Best Caffeine Shampoos.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you battle frizzy hair? Do you use hair serums or oils? Which brand is your favorite and why? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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Let’s be honest – there’s more to energy than a good cup of coffee (though we’re not giving that up anytime soon!). After 60, staying energized isn’t about pushing harder or doing more. It’s about tuning in. The women we admire most – the ones still laughing loudly, dancing freely, and chasing their grandkids or dreams – they all have one thing in common: they protect and replenish their energy with intention.

This isn’t another list of what you should do. It’s an invitation to notice what already fuels you – and gently expand it.

Let’s explore three parts of your day that hold surprising power to spark your vitality.

1. Morning Momentum: Set the Tone, Not the To-Do List

What you do in your first hour shapes your whole day. But many of us jump straight into emails, news, or taking care of others – and forget ourselves in the process.

Instead, try this:

• Let light in. Open a window or step outside for a few breaths.
• Move a little. Not a workout – a sway, a stretch, a walk around the block.
• Hydrate before caffeine.
• Do one thing that’s yours alone. Maybe it’s a journal prompt, your favorite song, or five minutes of stillness.

You don’t need a long routine. You need something yours. Something that tells your body: “I’m safe, I’m cared for, and I’m ready.”

2. Midday Maintenance: Protect the Spark

It’s not about having boundless energy all day long. It’s about not letting your spark burn out before 2pm.

Energy dips in the afternoon are common – but avoid reaching for sugar or another cup of coffee as a reflex. Instead, think of midday as a gentle check-in.

Ask yourself:

• Have I moved in the last hour?
• Have I eaten something with protein?
• Have I connected with a human (or even a pet)?
• Is my body asking for stillness – or stimulation?

Sometimes, just stepping outside, calling a friend, or drinking a glass of water can reset your system more than a nap.

3. Evening Recharge: Wind Down to Wake Up Better

Many of us treat sleep like an afterthought – something we collapse into, rather than prepare for.

But sleep is your body’s greatest repair system. And the hours leading up to it matter more than you might think.

Try one of these tonight:

• Shut down screens an hour before bed.
• Lower the lights in your home.
• Do a slow, seated stretch or breath practice.
• Keep a notebook nearby – not for to-dos, but to let go of thoughts.

Even a 5-minute routine can train your body to rest more deeply. You deserve rest that restores, not just rest that recovers.

Bonus: Spot the Sneaky Zappers

We often blame age or stress for fatigue. But the real culprits might be quieter:

• Saying yes when you mean no.
• Trying to “stay strong” instead of asking for help.
• Endless scrolling that leaves your brain buzzing.
• Clutter (digital or physical).
• Overgiving without receiving.

Noticing these leaks – and gently plugging them – can create more energy than any green smoothie.

The Real Secret? Joy Gives You Stamina

Play. Laughter. Curiosity. Awe. These aren’t luxuries. They are fuel.

Whether it’s dancing in your kitchen, painting a terrible watercolor, planning a trip, or learning a new language – the things that make you feel most like yourself are the things that keep you glowing.

You’ve spent decades showing up for everyone else. Now’s your time.

One Final Thought:

You don’t need to be perfect or overhaul your life. You just need to ask: What gives me life today? And follow the answer.

Every day, in every season, you deserve to feel vibrant.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What gives energy to your day, every day? Do you have a routine that energizes your body and mind? What does it look like and when did you implement it?

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Here’s if they’ve moved on from their infamous Chippendales drama.

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