I am in the same boat. Also 57. Age discrimination is very real. Hard to prove, though. Good luck.

I concur. I also had a good paying job for many years. Now its difficult to land a minimum wage job due to my age.

Dear spring chicken. I know it makes you feel bad watching all the young chickens doing what U used to do. Like me at age 58. I had to reach deep down inside and find what works for me. U must do the same. Take a good look at your self. See what you are capable of and apply it to your situation. I know it is tough. But U can do the impossible without nothing at all to work with. Believe in yourself and find out. I tell a little joke when faced with big delemas. If I don't believe it. Then no one else will. Take care and believe you CAN!

I feel your pain I have been unemployed since May I'm thinking of dying my hair

I don't know your economical situation but if your are receiving unemployment or have a cushion then you can focus on " what you're good at and follow that path. Don't take any job just because, by now I am sure there's a hidden talent somewhere. You just have to do some soul searching and go for what you know you can excel. Develop some type of plan, do some flyers and pass them to everyone that comes in contact with you. Tell your friends and ask to pass the word. Don't stay stuck thinking on the past this is a new chapter in your life to start something new elsewhere. You probably might have to start from the bottom but you can work yourself up again given the opportunity. Times are tough so you might have to budget cut but it's up to you to decide where do you want to be at this stage in your life. Once you make a decision trust me it all comes together. Only you can make it happen.

Mary Your correct that there are ways for employers to figure out your age other than asking you. What they really need to know is what you would bring to the table if they were to bring you onboard. the unpopular thing here is you may not find a position paying what you were making initially but if you focus on the skills you've built up over the years, the accomplishments made at your previous place of employment and frame your resume around those things, that could at least help you land the interview. If you land the interview I doubt anyone can promote you better than you can.

Im sure there are countless job searchers of all ages going through the same struggles you are so don't think your alone. Hang in there and stay after it.

My story is almost identical. Though I haven't found a job yet I was given some very good advice about updating my resume, since I hadn't done so in over twenty years. The job application process has changed dramatically since I last applied. It can be extremely frustrating, and I wish you the best of luck!

I always pray for guidance, patience and strength. Vow to make someone else smile; you'll be amazed at what that will do for you. You're not a spring chicken. You have grace, experience, intelligence, ethics, understanding and strength. Someone once said "having faith when things go right isn't faith. But having faith in spite of difficulties is the ultimate strength.

Hello Mary, keep trying. As a Christian, I always pray for guidance. There may be challenges but there is always businesses that are looking for your experience and knowledge. Best wishes and I will keep you in my prayers

I don't think that's why your not getting called,I think they may detect your frustration!