If you are talking standard factory mag ammo then I don't think the 44 mag is too much of a handful. Strength and physical size can be a factor but one's reaction to recoil is also another. Getting one as a first handgun could lead to the development of a flinch, but I don't think you can generalize too much, I think it depends on the individual.
The Alaskan is one fine chunky looking revolver, I looked at them but bought the 4" Redhawk instead, because it seemed more compact, in one sense, and I got a longer barrel which I felt would make me more accurate and would give more muzzle velocity with any particular ammo. Either is a great choice, go with the one that floats your boat - Congratulations on your purchase Tank, and the best of luck.
Don't let the 44 mags "reputation" scare you, I'd never ever fired a 44 mag when I got mine, I didn't even know anyone who had one, I fired a few 44 specials and then went for the 44 mag. First shot, I don't know if I even aimed I just wanted to see what was going to happen. I was pleasantly surprised nothing close to what I imagined and I still have an almost full box of 44 specials to prove it
. Pretty soon on later outings I was shooting fast in double action, not even thinking, about recoil. Now if we are talking the big bad loads some of the experienced guys here use, then that would be different, standard factory 240-300 gr ammo in a heavy revolver isn't any big deal IMO, but will still put a stop to pretty much anything you may encounter. You can always move up to the heavy loads when/if you want to.
P.S. I was 48 when I got mine and have large hands (size 14 wedding ring), so that's something else we have in common.