Many singles over 50 who have lost partners or gone through divorce give up on romance, believing meaningful relationships are a thing of the past. But healthy, committed partnerships can absolutely flourish at this stage of life. The right relationship provides immense benefits, improving your satisfaction, outlook, and quality of life as you enter your golden years.
Companionship
For many singles over 50, one of the biggest perks of coupling up is simply having someone to share life’s ups and downs. Grabbing coffee, cooking dinner together, attending events or taking part in hobbies as a twosome makes everyday moments sweeter. A romantic partner can help ease the transition into retirement and fill those long stretches of free time.
Intimacy
Physical intimacy and sexuality need not fade as we age. An emotionally and physically fulfilling relationship after 50 can help people enjoy their sensuality well into their golden years. Feelings of pleasure and closeness during sex provide a mood boost and help combat issues like anxiety or depression. Touch from a partner also leads to the release of oxytocin, the “love hormone” that contributes to greater well-being and quality of life in older adults.
Better Health
Studies show that maintaining a committed relationship later in life comes with considerable health perks too. Partnered older adults experience less depression, report higher self-esteem, better fitness levels, improved diet and nutrition and stronger immune functioning than their uncoupled peers. Sharing life’s stresses with a caring partner can also help manage conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease and arthritis pain too.
Learning and Growth
The adage says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but the science says otherwise. Maintaining an intellectually curious mind contributes greatly to cognitive health in older adults. The mental stimulation that comes from an intimate partnership keeps both partners learning as they move through their golden years together. Trying new things and stepping out of comfort zones helps aging minds stay sharp.
Security
Few things provide a greater sense of security and stability than having a devoted partner by your side. Making major medical decisions, transitioning into different living situations and dealing with emergencies become less intimidating with a loved one’s support. Couples also gain financial security by combining resources and providing for one another’s needs. Facing the uncertainties of aging is much less daunting with a partner to lean on when times get tough.
The perks of partnership likely sound familiar, but what changes after 50 is perspective. With more years behind us than ahead, the comforts of companionship and intimacy take on newer, sweeter meanings. For singles over 50, building a healthy relationship opens the door for growth, discovery and renewal during the richest season of life.
Would you like to know more about how to find a healthy relationship later in life? Contact me so I can answer your questions, and to find out how I can help you.
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