When a long-term relationship ends through divorce or bereavement, an increasing number of older people are moving on to find new love in later life. Being in a loving relationship stimulates both the body and mind, so that not only do you feel happier, you are also healthier and overcome illness more quickly.
There is no age limit on dating or loving. Ironically, it’s often not until you hit your 60s that you really have the time and energy to focus on finding that perfect partner. The stormiest parts of life are mostly over. Anxieties about children and careers have usually subsided, and the pressure to impress or perform is gone. In fact, this lack of pressure could lead to more successful relationships than before. Long-held views soften with age. Older people find it easier to agree than to disagree, while friendships and loving partnerships take on a stronger meaning.
Less to worry about
Your 60s is a time for fresh exploration, adventures and experiences. While money may be tight for some, most surveys show that people in their 50s and 60s suffer less in a recession, mostly because their mortgage is paid off and their pension or other nest egg has matured. By the time you reach 60, you know who you are and what’s important to you. You’re less self-conscious and more uninhibited. You’ve gained life experiences and learned from past mistakes. In some respects, you’ve graduated from the University of Life. Now it’s time to put that expertise to use. That knowledge can help you identify what you’re looking for in a relationship and what to avoid.
Live long and prosper
With lengthening lifespans, 60 is the new 40. We act younger than our parents and grandparents at the same age. It’s now common for 60-somethings to keep fit, watch their diet and stay up-to-date with technology and trends. People in their 60s now travel more than their peers did 20 years ago and there’s absolutely no shame in dying your hair or undergoing cosmetic procedures to look as young on the outside as you feel on the inside. A lot of people of this age feel that whatever our age, we still have the same hopes, joys, jealousies, passions as we always did, same everything – you’re just a bit more wrinkly.With the wonders of modern ageing, we’re all living longer. After retirement, we can hopefully expect another 20 or 30 years of life. It’s in this period that the revolution is happening. In the old days, you had a job, you were pensioned off and then you were dead.
Fall in love with life all over again
Turning 60 means living life on your own terms, and for many life is just beginning when they have fun and re-explore the world, post-children and sometimes post-marriage. Having someone like-minded to accompany you on the journey makes it feel more rewarding. Of course, romance at any age has its highs and lows, but the resilience and emotional stability you gain in later life will help you take things in your stride. All the hard work is done. Now it’s time to go out, live a little and – maybe – love a lot.