I don't think you should count yourself out due to age. I became single at 35, and I dated men aged 28-45 afterwards, and none of them cared about how old I was. The young guys always messaged me first! Including my current partner.
I'm turning 37 later this summer, and dating a 31 year old. We met 12/2/19. He asked to be my bf 3 weeks later, and we moved in together 7/1/20. I didn't "settle" for him; he's a catch! He's very kind, sensitive, intelligent/eccentric, and conventionally attractive (6'2", fit, dark hair, blue eyes). And and engineer!
None of the younger guys I dated cared about my age (they all said some version of "I love your personality and think you are hot"). I just don't think you should count yourself out because you are 38. A lot guys will not care.