Response from Linda:
"I am also in the "over 50" crowd, so I appreciate your concern. Luckily, I was not on a schedule, so I only rode as far as I felt like it each day. I didn't book hotel rooms in advance, so I'd ride until I was tired, took lots of breaks, and stopped whenever I felt like it. I also didn't use an alarm clock, so I slept until I was ready to wake up so I felt refreshed most days. I also stayed over some days when I was in a cool place, and just relaxed for the day. That was a great way to re-energize.
Whenever I'd get talking to people, I'd always tell them I was meeting up with friends in the next town. It was my excuse to not join up with them and put myself in a bad situation. I did have a man try to tag along with me in Wyoming, but I stayed in my room late the next morning, and waited until he left. I'd like to think he meant no harm and just wanted some company, but I felt better on my own rather than having a stranger riding with me. I was never afraid and found joy in the freedom of riding alone. Best of luck to you! You won't regret it!"
Here are a few articles related to your question.
Riding Sick and TiredEveryday Miracles: Turning 50Genevieve Schmitt