I'm 58 and have grandchildren but still don't think of myself as old. I guess the middle aged thing only recently hit me when i look in the mirror. I feel like I've held together pretty well-lol
I guess you know when you're reaching middle age when these type of remarks from your doctor make you feel good - like "You have really good muscle tone (for someone your age) and "You're really healthy (for someone your age). They never say "for someone your age" but the implication is there.
I keep telling myself I'm only as old as I feel and most days I feel about 40!