On the occasion of the Day of Love and Friendship, we want to highlight in this blog the experience of romantic love. We know that there are many myths related to the experience of love and romanticism in older adults, which are usually the result of ignorance in the population. And, in fact, this is a topic that is little talked about.
The truth is that many people at this stage of the life cycle meet new lovers and even contract new marriages. Other older adults have marriages or relationships that have lasted through time. Sharing a healthy loving relationship benefits people in older adulthood; in fact, specialists mention that having a satisfactory relationship has a positive influence on physical and mental health.
Older adults have every right to experience love as a couple and sexuality. In this last area, it is important to mention that sexuality is often thought to be limited to sexual intercourse, which is not the case. There are many expressions of affection such as kissing, caressing, hugging, etc. Ways in which a couple can enjoy sexuality. And with respect to sexual relations in older adulthood, these can be performed as long as the state of physical health is not an impediment, so it is advisable to consult a medical specialist with confidence; he or she will clear any doubts about it.
For those who have been in a relationship for many years, it is necessary to avoid monotony and habit. Love must always be renewed, and with it the signs of affection. Even if you have spent 50 or 60 years together, the nice thing is that you both look for each other, laugh, share activities as a couple and tell each other how much you love each other. If, on the other hand, they are starting a relationship, seniors should enjoy the process and take a chance, it is never too late to find love.
For family members of the older adult who decides to enter into a relationship, a great deal of understanding and flexibility is needed. We must remember that, although some older adults require various types of care and constant supervision, they have the right to live their adulthood to the fullest and to make decisions.
