By Julie James, Managing Director

They say that after menopause, a woman steps into a new chapter of life—quieter, slower, reflective. But I beg to differ.
For me, post-menopause didn’t bring rest. It brought resilience. It brought a new kind of fire. And it brought the decision to run my own domiciliary care business—in a world that doesn’t always take older women seriously.

Let’s not sugarcoat it: it’s not been easy. The physical and emotional shifts that come with menopause are real. Hot flashes, insomnia, brain fog, aches… And then there’s the doubt—the gnawing inner voice asking, “Am I too old for this?” “What if I’m not cut out for business?”

I would be lying if I said I never listened to that voice.

There were mornings I woke up exhausted before the day had even begun. Nights I stared at the ceiling worrying about staff rotas, regulations, cash flow, or a client in crisis. Days when I feel invisible in rooms full of younger professionals—my opinions not valued, my experience underestimated and the anxiety of being judges as not relevant.

But then I remember why I started this journey.

I saw the need. I saw families struggling to find compassionate, consistent care for their loved ones. I saw carers underpaid, undervalued, and burnt out. And I knew I could do things differently. I knew I had the strength, the heart, and the life experience to make a difference.

Because let’s be honest—there is power in being a woman who has lived.
I’ve juggled family, work, and hormones. I’ve survived heartbreaks, health scares, and self-doubt. I know what it means to care, to lead, and to rise when everything feels like it’s crumbling.

Running a domiciliary care business isn’t just about paperwork and policies. It’s about people. It’s about being present, kind, reliable—even when your tank feels empty. It’s about lifting others while you quietly piece yourself back together.

So, to my fellow women in their 50s, 60s, and beyond: if you’re feeling unsure, if you’re wondering whether it’s too late to chase your dream—let me tell you, it isn’t. You carry decades of wisdom. You’ve already walked through fire. You are more equipped than you know.

Yes, there will be stress. Yes, there will be moments when you want to quit. But there will also be victories. Beautiful, quiet victories—like a carer who finally feels supported, or a client’s family who can finally sleep at night knowing their mum is safe.

Being an older woman entrepreneur isn’t a second act. It’s a bold continuation of everything you’ve already become.

Keep going. You’re stronger than your doubt.

Let’s keep showing up. For ourselves. For our teams. For our communities.

I would love to connect with others in the care sector, women in leadership, or anyone navigating their own journey of business and purpose. Let’s support one another.