I'm not into designer clothes, shoes or handbags - I buy most things second hand. I don't do manicures or any other 'beauty' treatments but I do like my hair to look nice (it is difficult hair...) so it's one thing I'm prepared to splurge on if necessary. And a good hairdo lasts much longer than a poor one. I'm not interested in inane chat but if you are paying a professional for their expertise, I expect them to have a few suggestions for styling/colouring not just say 'how much do you want off today?' In my old place I could just say, 'I want it to look fabulous' and confidently leave it entirely to them. No chance I would have allowed Mrs Mop (who cut it last week) a free hand!
I'm 61 so only semi-ancient

I've got some grey coming through but not loads - I don't intend to go natural for a few years yet. My hair had grown way past my shoulders and I don't think very long hair is a great look when you're older, unless you wear it up all the time (I never do) or you're exceptionally beautiful. (Ha!) It can start to look a bit witchy and I think dark coloured dye looks witchy and unnatural on older women too.
Right - I am off to look in a few hairdressers' windows...