Need Advice Concerning Gearing on Compact Double

[Catrin]

Don't criticize anyone's gearing choices until you've ridden 100 miles in her terrain.
....
Western PA is steeper than Ohio, even. Let the gal have her low gears already.

Yes, this. All of our bodies and terrain are different.

[Cyclesome]

I am 53 years old and in the best physical condition of my life at 5' 6'' and 145 lbs. I lift weights 3 times a week (Group Power) and take 3 cardio classes (Group Step) as well. During the winter I use a Cycleops trainer for my bike. When riding with my friend who runs marathons and also has a compact double, we both run out of gears on hills. This is Western Pa, steep, long hills. In my riding club, most have triples.