Is there a scientific reason age gaps are less tolerated now?

>Was 24
>Kinda lonely, but still semi-content, no gf but ok
>Met 18 year old in a store and we hit it off
>Dated, shared our hopes and dreams
>Felt like the most natural thing in the world
>Started getting looks and comments from mates, girls my age and family
>'Anon, she's literally a child..'
>'Anon she's still in high school'
>'Can't you find anyone your own age anon?'
>Split up as a result (well, one of a few reasons)

Despite society becoming supposedly more progressive, it seems age gaps, even small ones (in my mind) such as that between a 24 and 18 year old really grinds people's gears.

I'm 31 now and my friends (men and women) are telling me I should be dating women 28 or older seriously limiting my dating pool.