Thanks for answers so far, hope for many more.
However, I would like to point out that my question was not so much about gender as such, but specifically the situation of mature female prospects. Have any of you encountered this rare species?
It may sound odd to many, but then again, most aspiring pilots see lots of their kind in the industry (= young or mature males), and young women also have their share of role models after all. Which leaves them with a vision, living proof that it can be done.
As for my possible plans, I see Zilch Zip Zero people like me starting out in the business. Where are the grown women? Is it just their own circumstance, or gives the industry them an extra reason to shy away (not suggesting this happens deliberately, but see initial post for issues like culture, habit, expectations).