I'm 57, 6'0", 210+ lbs. I rode a standard double 53/39, 12-25(27) for about five years. This year I got a new bike with a triple 53/39/30, 12-27. I often ride in the Texas Hill Country west of Austin. I wish I had gotten the triple sooner. I don't use the 30t chainring that often, but when I do, I am glad I have it. It gives me two things the double doesn't: 1) three lower gears, and 2) more options in the low gears so I can find the right gear for the incline. I'm going to upgrade my old bike to a triple.
Ride On!
-Spoke