Hoda Kotb Shares the Real Benefits of Parenting in Her 60s
Hoda Kotb, former Today show co-anchor, is embracing life as a mom to her daughters Haley, 8, and Hope, 6. In a conversation with Jenna Bush Hager on Open Book with Jenna, she reflected on how her world has slowed down and become more centered on family.
Kotb, now 61, acknowledges the label of being an “older mom” but sees it as a source of strength rather than limitation.
She explained that her age allows her to parent with greater patience, perspective, and wisdom than she might have had in her younger years.
Kotb shared that while her younger self may have simply passed down her parents’ values, her current stage in life enables her to offer her children deeper insights shaped by lived experiences.
She finds joy in meaningful conversations and a stronger connection with her kids, appreciating the richness that comes with maturity.
Her reflections align with a broader trend: more women are choosing motherhood later in life, supported by financial stability, emotional readiness, and advances in fertility technology.
Research also suggests potential health benefits for women who give birth later. Studies from the North American Menopause Society found that mothers who had children at older ages often had longer telomeres, linked to slower cellular aging and longevity.
Similarly, the New England Centenarian Study revealed that women who gave birth after 40 were significantly more likely to live to 100.
While raising children at any age requires energy and resilience, the sense of purpose and vitality that comes with later motherhood may itself contribute to staying youthful and healthy.
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