I am pan-hypopituitary, and almost 75 years of age. I have taken thyroid since age nine, and, in adult years, HRT as well as steroids (prednisone- I'm allergic to hydrocortisone).
Taking the bioidentical estrogen compound enables me to maintain my energy and stamina levels, and the addition of steroids help me to heal at a more normal rate (pan-hypopituitary also means my adrenal gland doesn't work). If I had to go back on low-dose HRT at this age, it could, as I'm sure you realize, cause all kinds of problems. And yet, I don't dare go without it, as I would become very weak and frail, and I would have more broken bones than I've had (thus far limited to one cracked rib, one toe, and one tiny bone in a foot in the last five years).
Bioidentical estrogen has worked very well for me for a number of years (at least 10, maybe 15), and I hope it can continue. I'm very thankful that this alternative is available for me!