Growing old and growing stout

Ive noticed that as women age, their bodies lose shape and become broader and stout.  I know this is an unavoidable side effect of growing old, but I wonder: around what age does this transformation take place?  I assume its different for everyone and may not be as noticeable for some.  But I'd like to hear your thoughts / stories about growing old with your body shape.

Hi, all I know is that it isn't inevitable. My mother always watched her weight and ate sensibly and still has a wonderful figure at the age of 74. She's slim waisted and very shapely. I've nearly reached my target and have also rediscovered my shape. It is harder than when we were younger, but being middle aged does not mean we have to slide into middle aged spread.

You have to put in more effort to both lose and maintain weight (diet and exercise) as the years go by...your metabolic rate is naturally slower when you're not doing internal changes...we tend to lose the spring of youth.