Final answer:
Maria José's family members may have difficulty accepting her status as an "old maid" due to their enthusiasm for marriage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most likely reason that Maria José's family members have difficulty accepting her status as an "old maid" is because of their enthusiasm for marriage. The passage mentions that Elena's family and acquaintances frequently talk about weddings and ask who will be getting married next. This suggests that marriage is highly valued and expected in their social circle, which could contribute to their reluctance in accepting Maria José's unmarried status.