FOR A WOMAN YOUR AGE …….

Have you ever been told that, for a woman your age, you’ve got a good set of teeth even though the gums have receded. Or, your bloodwork is okay but better work on lowering that cholesterol. Or, your tummy paunch is normal but you might want to join Weight Watchers. And here’s the zinger: you look great — for a woman your age.

Your doctors, friends or family members may think this is a compliment and expect you to take it as such. I have my reservations.

It’s sort of like the current adage that “60 is the new 40” (or plug in whatever age applies). My body started breaking down at age 55 and is determined ever since to create a new physical ailment each week. I can definitely proclaim that we do feel our age — or older.

When a perky receptionist or clerk asks me “how are you?,” I give them my best steely stare and inquire if they have an hour for that conversation. Or, I admonish them to never ask that question of someone over 60. Especially irritating is the greeting “how are you?” when I am registering for another spine operation or about to have a molar extracted. I am at the age when social niceties are tolerated only on a limited basis.

Some would call me a Grumpy Old Boomer, but for a woman my age…. Well, go ahead and fill in the blank.