At 76, she decided to age naturally.

© sally_field / twitter

After gaining fame as a young actress, Field took a grounded approach to aging gracefully. In a 2016 interview, she openly embraced the process, stating, “I’m an old woman. 70 is old, and that’s OK.” While there are aspects she may not love about growing older, such as her neck, she has come to accept it.

Field took pride in choosing to age naturally and expressed her admiration for women who resisted plastic surgery. She realized the importance of respecting and appreciating one’s present self, rather than striving for an idealized image from the past. “I see myself on TV, and I say, ’Oh, I wish that weren’t happening to my neck.’ And your face is falling down, and your eyes are so puffy,” Field explained.

She was criticized for her choice.

Andy Kropa/Invision/East News

Field was diagnosed with osteoporosis, a “silent disease,” before turning 60 in 2005. She acknowledged fitting the risk profile due to her small build, age, and ethnicity. The condition weakens bones, increasing the risk of fractures in the hip, wrist, and spine.

Women are more susceptible to osteoporosis due to hormonal changes during menopause, which lead to decreased bone density. Despite Field’s efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition, exercise, and calcium intake, she couldn’t prevent the diagnosis, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the disease.

Unfortunately, despite her natural aging and health challenges, Field faced criticism for her appearance. In 2018, social media trolls targeted her on Twitter, making hurtful comments about her looks. Some individuals resorted to insults, calling her “ugly” and making derogatory remarks about her physical features. Such comments are disrespectful and reflect the negative side of online interactions.

Field’s journey inspires those who choose to age naturally, embracing the passage of time with grace and resilience. This choice empowers individuals and encourages a positive shift in societal norms. By embracing natural aging, they inspire others to embrace their own beauty, fostering a culture of self-acceptance and genuine confidence.