I love the Caryl ship!!! I think it's sad people think that Carol is a "mother" figure and can't also be a romantic non-parent figure, just because she appears older and matronly...
I don't think it's because she's old, in fact she doesn't look very old to me, but in my opinion considering Daryl's personality I think luvvy-wuvvy is not the way to go.. I know there are rumors about the ship but really I think it's more of a protection thing.