Advanced Style In Montreux

I was thrilled when this wonderful lady let me take her photo on my day trip to Montreux, Switzerland. When I showed someone this image they remarked, "She must have beautiful when she was younger." Although this may have been meant as a compliment I wonder why they hadn't just remarked on how beautiful the woman is now. This is something that I often hear. Isn't it possible for people to become more beautiful as they get older?