The request from director general Mark Thompson comes after accusations of ageist behaviour by the broadcaster following the replacement of 66-year-old Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips by 30-year-old Alesha Dixon.
It was claimed in 2007 that Moira Stuart had left the BBC over her age and Anna Ford, when announcing her departure from the BBC after 30 years in 2006, said that at 62 she feared being sidelined.
A spokesman on Thursday said Mr Thompson had contacted news director Helen Boaden 'and other directors about the need to have a broad range of presenters on air - including older women'.
'News has a pretty good story to tell with Kirsty Wark, Martha Kearney and Maxine Mawhinney all flourishing - as well as highly experienced women out in the field like Bridget Kendall, Caroline Wyatt and Orla Guerin,' he added.
'However, we'd be the first to say that it's important not to rest on our laurels in this area and ensure we reflect the public we serve.'
He continued: 'And of course, this isn't an issue just for the BBC - other broadcasters face the same challenges.'
In response to the confirmed search for an older newsreader, veteran broadcaster Dame Joan Bakewell said she was 'really gratified' by the move.
The 76-year-old said she had met with Mr Thompson and Ms Boaden, who agreed there was 'a case there to be answered'.
'I said there was a conspicuous absence of older women - of all the segments in society - that isn't seen,' Bakewell added.
'We get lots of jowly white-haired men - that's no inhibitor of employment for them - but it seems to have been eliminator for women until now.
'I'm glad it's changing.'
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